Articulated disinfectant delivery devices and methods of use

Abstract

Articulated disinfectant delivery devices and methods including fluid applicator devices are disclosed. The fluid applicator device has a handle having a first end, a second end, and a length between the first end and the second end, with two fingers extending from the second end and defining an opening between the two fingers. The fluid applicator device also has a base plate rotatably coupled with the handle, the base plate having a top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface includes a first support and a second support disposed thereon, and a rod disposed between the first support and the second support. The fluid applicator device also has a foam applicator coupled to the base plate to absorb and dispense a disinfecting solution, with a top surface of the base plate proximate the handle in a delivery state and disposed at an angle to the handle in a use state.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 389,608, filed on July 15, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The disclosed subject matter relates to an articulated disinfectant delivery device and methods of use. Background Art

[0004] Typically, there are devices and methods for dispensing and applying products to surfaces. For example, paint can typically be applied to a wall with a paintbrush, shoe polish can be applied to a shoe with a cloth, and toothpaste can be applied to a toothbrush for cleaning teeth. When presented as separate units, such products and devices can be messy and unfortunately spill. In the medical field, it is common practice to prepare a patient for surgery by applying a fluid product (such as an antiseptic solution) to a target body part using a device that must be activated prior to use. One of the many problems associated with some typical conventional products or fluid delivery devices is the arrangement of the handle relative to the applicator, which can create risks, such as the clinician contacting an area of ​​the skin of a patient being prepared for surgery.

[0005] In order to overcome at least some of the problems in this area, fluid delivery devices have been designed so that the handle is angled relative to the applicator. One disadvantage of such devices is that they are permanently fixed in that position, which requires specialized packaging to accommodate the space created by the arrangement. Such devices cannot be efficiently designed for commercial packaging and subsequent shipping because the angled handle relative to the applicator takes up more volume than a flat fluid delivery device.

[0006] Therefore, there remains a need for an improved articulated disinfectant delivery device. The presently disclosed subject matter satisfies these and other needs. Summary of the invention

[0007] The objects and advantages of the disclosed subject matter will be set forth in and will become apparent from the following description, and will be learned by practicing the disclosed subject matter. Additional advantages of the disclosed subject matter will be realized and obtained by the devices particularly pointed out in the written description and its claims as well as the drawings.

[0008] To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purposes of the disclosed subject matter, as embodied and broadly described, the disclosed subject matter comprises a fluid applicator device. The fluid applicator device comprises: a handle having a first end, a second end, and a length between the first end and the second end, wherein two fingers extend from the second end and define an opening between the two fingers; a base plate rotatably coupled to the handle, the base plate having a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the top surface comprises: a first support member and a second support member disposed thereon, and a rod disposed between the first support member and the second support member, wherein the rod is received in the opening between the two fingers, the second end of the handle being configured to at least partially rotate about the rod and being configured to lock with the rod in a use state; and a foam applicator coupled to the bottom surface of the base plate and configured to absorb and dispense a disinfecting solution, wherein the top surface of the base plate is proximate to the handle in a delivery state and the top surface is disposed at a certain angle to the handle in a use state.

[0009] According to another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, a method of using a fluid applicator device is provided. The method includes providing a fluid applicator device, the fluid applicator device including: a handle, the handle having a first end, a second end, and a length between the first end and the second end, wherein two fingers extend from the second end and define an opening between the two fingers; a base plate rotatably coupled to the handle, the base plate having a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the top surface includes: a first support and a second support disposed thereon, and a rod disposed between the first support and the second support, wherein the rod is received in the opening between the two fingers, the second end of the handle is configured to at least partially rotate around the rod and is configured to lock with the rod in a use state; and a foam applicator coupled to the bottom surface of the base plate, configured to absorb and dispense a disinfecting solution, wherein the top surface of the base plate is proximate to the handle in a delivery state and the top surface is disposed at a certain angle to the handle in a use state; rotating the handle around the rod from the delivery state toward the use state; and applying an axial force along the handle toward the base plate to lock the handle with the base plate in a use state.

[0010] According to yet another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, a fluid applicator device is provided, comprising: a handle having a first end, a second end, and a length between the first end and the second end, wherein two fingers extend from the second end and define an opening between the two fingers, wherein the handle further comprises at least a first protrusion at the second end; a base plate rotatably coupled to the handle, wherein at least the first protrusion of the handle extends from a first side of the handle to lock the handle with the base plate at a certain angle, the base plate having a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the angle is predetermined and can be varied within a range of up to about 90° relative to the top surface of the base plate, wherein the top surface comprises: a first support member disposed thereon and a a second support, and a rod disposed between the first support and the second support, wherein the rod is received in the opening between the two fingers, the second end of the handle is configured to at least partially rotate around the rod and is configured to lock with the rod in a use state, wherein the rod includes a first recess, and the handle also includes a first mating member disposed in the opening between the two fingers, the first mating member can be received in the first recess to lock the handle with the base plate; and a foam applicator, the foam applicator is connected to the bottom surface of the base plate and is configured to absorb and distribute a disinfecting solution, wherein the top surface of the base plate is close to the handle in a delivery state and the top surface is arranged at a certain angle to the handle in a use state.

[0011] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings are examples and are provided for purposes of illustration and not intended to limit the scope of the disclosed subject matter in any way.

[0012] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, are included to illustrate and provide a further understanding of the apparatus of the disclosed subject matter. The drawings, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed subject matter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The subject matter of the present application will be more readily understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a fluid applicator apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

[0015] Figure 1B for Figure 1A Exploded perspective view of a fluid applicator apparatus according to the disclosed subject matter.

[0016] Figure 2A for Figure 1AA perspective view of an integral foam applicator of a fluid applicator assembly in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

[0017] Figure 2B is a perspective view of an embodiment of a two-part foam applicator in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

[0018] Figure 2C is a perspective view of another embodiment of a two-part foam applicator in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

[0019] Figure 2D is a perspective view of an embodiment of a foam applicator having perforations in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

[0020] Figure 2E is a perspective view of an embodiment of a foam applicator having a two-part laminate in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

[0021] Figure 3A for Figure 1A A perspective view of a base plate of a fluid applicator apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

[0022] Figure 3B for Figure 1A A side perspective view of a base plate of a fluid applicator apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

[0023] Figure 3C for Figure 1A A top plan view of a base plate of a fluid applicator apparatus according to the disclosed subject matter.

[0024] Figure 3D is a perspective view of an alternative base plate for a fluid applicator assembly in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

[0025] Figure 4 for Figure 1A A perspective view of a base plate of a fluid applicator apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

[0026] Figure 5A for Figure 1A A perspective view of an end of a handle of a fluid applicator device in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

[0027] Figure 5B for Figure 1A A perspective view of an end of a handle of a fluid applicator device in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

[0028] Fig. 6A For assembly Figure 1A A side view of a fluid applicator apparatus according to the disclosed subject matter.

[0029] Figure 6B for Figure 1AA side view of a fluid applicator device in accordance with the disclosed subject matter in use.

[0030] Fig. 7A For assembly Fig. 6A A cross-sectional view of a fluid applicator device according to the disclosed subject matter.

[0031] Figure 7B for Figure 6B A cross-sectional view of a fluid applicator device in accordance with the disclosed subject matter in a state of use.

[0032] Figure 8 for Figure 1A A side view of a fluid applicator device in accordance with the disclosed subject matter in a delivery state.

[0033] Fig.9A is a perspective view of a fluid applicator assembly having a living hinge according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0034] Fig. 9B for Fig.9A A perspective view of a fluid applicator device having a living hinge in accordance with the disclosed subject matter in a state of use.

[0035] Fig. 10A for Figure 1A A side view of a fluid applicator device according to the disclosed subject matter disposed in a packaging container.

[0036] Fig. 10B for Fig. 10A A top plan view of a fluid applicator device according to the disclosed subject matter disposed in a packaging container.

[0037] Fig.11A is a perspective view of a fluid applicator device having a living hinge in a delivery state in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

[0038] Fig. 11B is a perspective view of a fluid applicator device having a living hinge in use according to the disclosed subject matter.

[0039] Fig. 11C for Fig. 11B A partially transparent side view of a fluid applicator apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The disclosed subject matter will be described in conjunction with a detailed description of the system.

[0041] According to the disclosed subject matter, a fluid applicator device is provided. The fluid applicator device includes: a handle having a first end, a second end, and a length between the first end and the second end, wherein two fingers extend from the second end and define an opening between the two fingers; a base plate rotatably coupled to the handle, the base plate having a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the top surface includes: a first support and a second support disposed thereon, and a rod disposed between the first support and the second support, wherein the rod is accommodated in the opening between the two fingers, the second end of the handle is configured to at least partially rotate around the rod and is configured to lock with the rod in a use state; and a foam applicator coupled to the bottom surface of the base plate and configured to absorb and dispense a disinfecting solution, wherein the top surface of the base plate is proximate to the handle in a delivery state and the top surface is disposed at a certain angle to the handle in a use state.

[0042] According to the disclosed subject matter, a fluid applicator device is provided according to another embodiment. The fluid applicator device includes a handle, the handle having a first end, a second end, and a length between the first end and the second end, the handle also including a bolt disposed between the first end and the second end. A base plate is rotatably coupled to the handle by a living hinge, the base plate having a top surface and a bottom surface, the base plate also including an opening configured to cooperate with the bolt. A foam applicator is coupled to the bottom surface of the base plate and is configured to absorb and dispense a disinfectant solution. The bolt is configured to lock the handle to the base plate at a certain angle in a delivery state.

[0043] A method of using the above-described fluid applicator device is also disclosed. The details of the method of using the device will be described in detail in conjunction with the features of the fluid applicator device.

[0044] For illustrative purposes only, Figure 1A-1B An embodiment of a fluid applicator device 100 is shown in the . The examples herein are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosed subject matter in any way. The fluid applicator device 100 can be configured to transition from a delivery state when contained in a package (not shown) to a use state for applying a fluid product (such as a disinfecting solution) to a target body part of a patient's skin. In embodiments, the package can be made of any suitable material, such as but not limited to relatively flexible resin materials, coated papers, shrink wrap, laminated structures, plastic and metallized films and combinations thereof, calcium carbonate paper or other synthetic papers including various thermoformed packaging solutions.

[0045] like Figure 1A-1BAs shown in , the fluid applicator device 100 may include a handle 200, a base plate 300, and a foam applicator 400. The handle 200 may be configured to be coupled to the base plate 300 and rotate around the base plate 300, and the foam applicator 400 may be coupled to the bottom side of the base plate 300, opposite to the handle 200. In an embodiment, the delivery state of the fluid applicator device 100 may make the fluid applicator device 100 substantially flat, wherein the length of the handle 200 is substantially parallel to the base plate 300. The use state of the fluid applicator device 100 may make the handle 200 set at a certain angle relative to the base plate 300. Once removed from the package or once the package is at least partially opened, the user can convert the fluid applicator device 100 from the delivery state to the use state. According to these embodiments of the present subject matter, in the use state, the angle of the handle 200 relative to the base plate 300 can be predetermined and can be varied in the range of up to about 90°, more specifically, the handle 200 can be set at an angle from about 30° to about 60°.

[0046] The handle 200 can be coupled to the base plate 300 in any suitable manner, including by using fasteners, adhesives, brazing, welding, snap-fit ​​connections, etc. The handle 200 can have any suitable size and shape. According to these embodiments, the handle 200 can be made of a variety of suitable materials. For example, the handle 200 can be made of metal, non-metal, polymer, composite material, ceramic, and any combination thereof, and can also be manufactured in a variety of ways including injection molding. In one embodiment, the handle 200 is made of polypropylene and can be disposable. In other embodiments, the handle 200 includes a sterilizable material, such as stainless steel, and can be reused after cleaning and sterilization. In these embodiments, the foam applicator 400 can be packaged separately from the handle 200, wherein the foam applicator 400 can be coupled to the handle 200 so as to be used for disposable use in the use state, wherein the handle 200 can be removed from the foam applicator 400 and can be reused with subsequent foam applicators 400. The handle 200 can include a first end 202 and a second end 204 opposite to the first end 202, wherein there is a length between the first end and the second end. As shown, the second end 204 can couple the handle 200 to the base plate 300. The handle 200 can also include a gripping rib 206 at the first end 202 that is configured to support a hand of a user of the fluid applicator device 100. In other embodiments, the gripping rib 206 can be disposed anywhere along the handle 200 as desired.

[0047] Figure 2A-2EAn example embodiment of a foam applicator 400 of the fluid applicator device 100 is depicted. Examples of suitable foam applicators are described in U.S. Patent No. 11,160,962, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. As embodied herein, the foam applicator 400 can be used as a liquid reservoir and can store a product, such as a disinfecting solution, until the delivery device is ready for use.

[0048] The foam applicator 400 can be used to dispense a sterile medical product, such as onto the skin of a patient. The foam applicator 400 can have any suitable size and shape. As an example, the foam applicator 400 is depicted as having a square shape with a thickness dimension 402 and rounded corners. In some embodiments, the size of the foam applicator 400 can be configured so that the foam applicator 400 extends beyond the base plate 300 (see Figure 1A-1B ). The foam applicator 400 can be made of any suitable material for absorbing and distributing liquids, including but not limited to reticulated polyester foam, polyurethane foam, polyester polyurethane hybrid foam, polyether polyurethane hybrid foam, dense foam, felted and non-felt foam, punctured and non-punctured foam, clickable foam, laminated foam, reticulated foam, etc. Methods for making foams with various shapes, thicknesses, densities, and pore sizes are well known in the art. For purposes of illustration and not limitation, an example of a suitable foam is a polyurethane reticulated foam from FXI Manufacturing Company (Medie, Pennsylvania), which in the disclosed embodiment has a pore size range of about 80 pores / linear inch to about 110 pores / linear inch.

[0049] The material, size, density and pore size of the foam applicator 400 can be selected so that the foam applicator 400 can store a desired amount of liquid disinfectant. In one embodiment, the material, size, density and pore size of the foam applicator 400 can be selected so that the foam applicator 400 can store at least 26 ml of disinfectant solution.

[0050] The material, size, density, and pore size of the foam applicator 400 may further be selected so that the liquid disinfectant does not leak or drip from the foam applicator after the foam applicator 400 is removed from the packaging and before it is exposed to the patient. Figure 2A As shown in , the foam applicator 400 can have a unitary foam structure with a uniform density, thickness, and pore size. In other embodiments, the foam applicator 400 can be composed of two different foam structures, which can be passively combined, such as but not limited to interference fit between the foam structures, or can be laminated together. For example, but not limited to, the foam applicator 400 can have a square outer foam structure 404 and a circular inner foam structure 406, such as Figure 2BAlternatively, the foam applicator 400 may have a square outer foam structure 404 and a square inner foam structure 406, as shown in FIG. Figure 2C . However, any desired shape of the inner foam structure and the outer foam structure is contemplated. The foam structure of the foam applicator 400 can be selected to prevent the liquid disinfectant from dripping from the foam applicator 400 after the foam applicator 400 is removed from the package and before it is exposed to the patient. For example, but not limited to, the outer foam structure 404 can be selected to have a density, thickness, and pore size configured to provide excellent drip-proof performance, and the inner foam structure 406 can be selected to have a different density, thickness, and pore size configured to facilitate easier distribution of the disinfectant to the patient's skin.

[0051] exist Figure 2D In the embodiment of the present invention, the foam applicator 400 further includes at least one through hole 408, as shown. The through hole 408 (one or more) can provide an additional channel for the disinfectant solution to travel and be released onto the patient's skin. Figure 2E As shown in , other embodiments of the foam applicator 400 can have two or more foam structures that can be configured to produce a single foam element having multiple layers. The foam layers can be layered using any known method, including but not limited to flame lamination, ultrasonic welding, etc. Foam structures with different properties (including but not limited to density, thickness, and pore size) can be selected to facilitate fluid retention, excellent anti-drip performance, and easier distribution of disinfectant to the patient's skin. For example, but not limited to, the upper foam structure 410 can be selected to have a density, thickness, and pore size that is configured to provide excellent fluid retention and anti-drip performance, while the lower foam structure 412 can be selected to have a different density, thickness, and pore size that is configured to facilitate easier distribution of disinfectant to the patient's skin.

[0052] As described above, the product contained in the foam applicator 400 can be suitable for any medical application. For example, the product can be a disinfectant solution, and applying the solution to a part of the body can kill microorganisms. In one embodiment, the application of the disinfectant solution can kill microorganisms immediately and within about 10 minutes, and also have a lasting effect of at least 7 hours. Therefore, the disinfectant solution can be used to prepare the body for surgery. In some embodiments, the disinfectant solution may include at least one of chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG), isopropyl alcohol, PVP-I and PVP-IPA, and a mixture thereof containing water. In another embodiment, the disinfectant solution may include at least 3.15% w / v of chlorhexidine gluconate and 70% v / v of isopropyl alcohol (both are nominally 10% w / v). CHG can be designated as: 1,1'-ethylenebis[5-(p-chlorophenyl)biguanide] digluconate.

[0053] Figures 3A-3C Depiction Figure 1A-1B 1 is a perspective view of a base plate 300 of a fluid applicator device 100. The base plate 300 is configured to lock into and couple with the handle 200 (see Figure 1A-1B ), and provides a base for the foam applicator 400 (see Figure 2A-2E ). The base plate 300 can have any suitable size and shape. According to these embodiments, the base plate 300 can be made of a variety of suitable materials. For example, the base plate 300 can be made of metal, non-metal, polymer, composite material, ceramic, and any combination thereof. For example, the base plate 300 can be made of polypropylene. The base plate 300 can also be manufactured in a variety of ways including injection molding.

[0054] As shown, the base plate 300 has a top surface 302, a bottom surface 304, a first support 306, a second support 308, and a rod 310. In an embodiment, the foam applicator 400 can be coupled to the bottom surface 304 opposite to the top surface 302. The foam applicator 400 can be coupled to the bottom surface 304 by any known method, such as but not limited to adhesive attachment, ultrasonic welding and thermal welding, and mechanical winding. The base plate 300 can also include a pair of flexible fins 312 extending from the top surface 302, and the flexible fins 312 are configured to keep the handle adjacent to the base plate 300 when in the delivery state. The fins 312 are flexible and can be biased toward and away from each other to accommodate the handle 200 moving between the delivery state and the use state. The fins 312 can be made of the same material as the base plate 300, or can be made of different materials. As shown, the first support 306 and the second support 308 can be arranged on the top surface 302. The first support member 306 may include a first slot 314 defined therein, and the second support member 308 may include a second slot 316 defined therein. Each of the first slot 314 and the second slot 316 may have any suitable size and shape. As shown, each of the first slot 314 and the second slot 316 is disposed at an angle relative to the top surface 302. Without limitation, the angle may be selected from a range of up to about 90° relative to the top surface 302 of the base plate 300. The first slot 314 and the second slot 316 may be configured to receive the second end 204 of the handle 200 when the handle 200 is coupled to the base plate 300 (see Figure 1A-1B ) part.

[0055] Rod 310 can be arranged between first support member 306 and second support member 308. Rod 310 can have any suitable size and shape, and can be manufactured as injection molded parts together with base. Although illustrated as cylindrical shape, rod 310 is not limited to such shape. According to these embodiments, rod 310 can be made of a variety of suitable materials. For example, rod 310 can be made of metal, non-metal, polymer, composite material, ceramic and any combination thereof. For example, rod 310 can include polypropylene. As shown, rod 310 can include first notch 318 and second notch 320. In the present embodiment, first notch 318 and second notch 320 can be arranged around the center position along rod 310. First notch 318 can be arranged relative to second notch 320 to face the direction upward, wherein second notch 320 can face the direction downward. Each of first notch 318 and second notch 320 can have any suitable size and shape. Similar to the first and second slots 314 , 316 , the first recess 318 and the second recess 320 may be configured to receive a portion of the second end 204 of the handle 200 when the handle 200 is coupled to the base plate 300 .

[0056] Figure 3D Describes the application Figure 1A-1B A perspective view of another embodiment of a base plate 300 of a fluid applicator assembly 100. Figures 3A-3C The base plate 300 illustrated in FIG. Figure 3D The base plate 300 is configured to be locked in the handle 200 and coupled with the handle 200 (see Figure 1A-1B ), and provides a base for the foam applicator 400 (see Figure 2A-2E ).exist Figures 3A-3C In the embodiment of FIG. 3 , the first support member 306, the second support member 308, and the rod 310 are disposed approximately at the center or middle of the top surface 302 of the base plate 300. Figure 3D , the first support 306 and the second support 308 can be disposed at a side 326 of the base plate 300, wherein the rod 310 is disposed between each of the first support 306 and the second support 308. This position of the first support 306, the second support 308, and the rod 310 can reduce the overall thickness and side profile of the fluid applicator device 100 when in a delivery state. Although shown along the first side 326, the first support 306 and the second support 308 can be disposed along any suitable side of the base plate 300, such as the second side 328 opposite the fins.

[0057] Figure 4 Depiction Figure 1A-1B A perspective view of another embodiment of a base plate 300 of a fluid applicator assembly 100. Figures 3A-3CIn the base plate 300 illustrated in the example, the current embodiment includes a top surface 302, a bottom surface 304, a first support member 306, a second support member 308, a rod 310, a group of fins 312, a first slot 314, and a second slot 316. However, the rod 310 of the current embodiment can include recesses of different configurations (such as a first recess 318 and a second recess 320). For example, the rod 310 can include a first group of recesses 322 and a second group of recesses 324. The first group of recesses 322 and the second group of recesses 324 can operate and function similarly to the first recess 318 and the second recess 320. The first group of recesses 322 can be arranged relative to the second group of recesses 324 to face the upward direction, wherein the second group of recesses 324 can face the downward direction. As shown, the first group of recesses 322 and the second group of recesses 324 can be arranged at the end of the rod 310, rather than at the center of the rod 310. For example, a first one of the first set of notches 322 may be disposed at one end of the rod 310, and a second one of the first set of notches 322 may be disposed at the opposite end of the rod 310. Likewise, a first one of the second set of notches 324 may be disposed at one end of the rod 310, and a second one of the second set of notches 324 may be disposed at the opposite end of the rod 310.

[0058] Figure 5A-5B Depiction Figure 1A-1B 1 is a perspective view of a handle 200 of a fluid applicator device 100. The handle 200 is configured to at least partially surround a base plate 300 (reference Figure 3A-4 ) of rod 310 (reference Figure 3A-4 ) is rotated, and is configured to lock with the rod 310 in the use state. As shown, the handle 200 has a second end 204, an opening 208, at least one protrusion 210, a first mating member 212 and a second mating member 214. The opening 208 can be defined by two fingers 216 extending from the second end 204 of the handle 200, wherein the opening 208 is between the two fingers 216. Each finger 216 can have any suitable size and shape. For example, the fingers 216 may include a curved surface so that they bend inward when they extend from the second end 204. As shown, the first mating member 212 and the second mating member 214 can be disposed in the opening 208 between the extended fingers 216. The first mating member 212 can be formed by a first recess 318 of the rod 310 (see Figures 3A-3C ) to lock the handle 200 with the base plate 300. Similarly, the second mating member 214 can be received by the second recess 320 (see Figures 3A-3CEach of the first mating member 212 and the second mating member 214 may include a cam surface 218 that is complementary to the first recess 318 and / or the second recess 320 to prevent the handle 200 from being unlocked from the base plate 300 when the device is in use.

[0059] At least one protrusion 210 of the handle 200 may extend from the first side 220 of the handle 200 to lock the handle 200 with the base plate 300 at a desired predetermined angle. In one or more embodiments, the at least one protrusion 210 may be provided by the first support member 306 (see Figure 3A-4 ) of the first slot 314 (see Figure 3A-4 ) is received. When the first mating member 212 is received by the first recess 318, at least one protrusion 210 can be received by the first slot 314. In an embodiment, there can be two protrusions 210. The second protrusion 210 can extend from the handle along a side opposite to the first side 220 and can be supported by the second support 308 (see Figure 3A-4 ) of the second slot 316 (see Figure 3A-4 )take over.

[0060] Figure 6A-6B Describing Assembly Figure 1A-1B 1. A side view of a fluid applicator assembly 100. Figure 7A-7B Depiction Figure 6A-6B sectional view. As embodied herein, the fluid applicator device 100 can initially be in a delivery state. The delivery state can be one in which the handle 200 is substantially parallel to the base plate 300, wherein the top surface 302 of the base plate 300 is proximate to the handle 200. In the delivery state, the rod 310 can be at least partially disposed within the opening 208 and between the fingers 216. As shown, the user can grasp the handle 200 and rotate the handle 200 about the rod 310 to transition to the use state. The user can apply an axial force F along the handle 200 toward the base plate 300 to lock the handle with the base plate 300 in the use state. When the axial force is applied, the at least one protrusion 210 can engage with the first support member 306 and can be received by the first slot 314. When the first slot 314 receives the at least one protrusion 210, the first mating member 212 and the second mating member 214 can respectively engage with the first recess 318 (see Figures 3A-3C ) and a second notch 320 (see Figures 3A-3C ) to lock the handle 200 to the base plate 300 at a specified angle. In an embodiment, the handle 200 is snap-fitted with the base plate 300.

[0061] Figure 8 Depiction Figure 1A-1B300. A side view of the fluid applicator device 100 in a delivery state. The fluid applicator device 100 can be removed from a package (not shown) in the illustrated configuration. The handle 200 is disposed in a direction generally parallel to the base plate 300, or at a small angle (e.g., 5 degrees) relative to the base plate 300. The handle 200 can abut at least a portion of the top surface 302 of the base plate 300. In addition, the handle 200 can be disposed between a set of fins 312 extending from the top surface 302. The set of fins 312 provides support and inhibits lateral movement of the handle 200 relative to the base plate 300.

[0062] Figures 9A-9B A perspective view depicting another embodiment of a fluid applicator device having a living hinge 900. As embodied herein, the handle 200 can be coupled to the base plate 300 via the living hinge 900, wherein the handle 200 and the base plate 300 can be functionally a single or unitary component. For example, the living hinge 900 can be a thin flexible hinge that includes the same material as the two components (e.g., the handle 200 and the base plate 300) coupled thereto. The living hinge 900 can be bent so as to open the opening 208 of the handle 200 (see Figure 5A-5B ) is fixed to the rod 310 of the base plate 300 (see Figures 3A-3D ). According to these embodiments, the living hinge 900 can be made of a variety of suitable materials. For example, the living hinge 900 can be made of metals, non-metals, polymers, composite materials, ceramics, and any combination thereof, and can also be manufactured in a variety of ways including injection molding. In one embodiment, for the purpose of illustration, the living hinge 900 is made of polypropylene.

[0063] Figures 10A-10B Depiction Figure 1A-1B FIG. 5 is a view of a fluid applicator device 100 disposed in a packaging container 500 . Fig. 10A A side view of the fluid applicator device 100 disposed within the packaging container 500 is depicted, and Fig. 10BDescribe the top plan view of the fluid applicator device 100 that is arranged in the packaging container 500.Once taken out from the packaging container 500 or once the packaging container 500 is at least partially opened, the user can transform the fluid applicator device 100 from the delivery state to the use state.The packaging container 500 can have any suitable size and shape that can be operated to hold the fluid applicator device 100.According to these embodiments, the packaging container 500 can be made of multiple suitable materials.For example, the packaging container 500 can be made of metal, non-metal, polymer, composite material, ceramic and any combination thereof.In an embodiment, the packaging container 500 can be made of any suitable material, such as but not limited to relatively flexible resin material, coated paper, shrink packaging, laminated structure, plastics and metallized film and its combination, calcium carbonate paper or other synthetic paper that comprises various thermoforming packaging solutions. In other embodiments, a packaging container 500 as shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 11,160,962 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 318,537, the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, may be used with an apparatus according to the present disclosure.

[0064] Figures 11A-11C A perspective view and a side view of another embodiment of a fluid applicator device having a living hinge 900 are depicted. As embodied herein, the handle 200 can be coupled to the base plate 300 via the living hinge 900, wherein the handle 200 and the base plate 300 can be functionally a single or integral component. For example, the living hinge 900 can be a thin flexible hinge that includes the same material as the two components (such as the handle 200 and the base plate 300) coupled thereto. The living hinge 900 can be bent so as to secure the pin 221 of the handle 200 to the opening 311 of the base plate 300. Similar to the above embodiments, the living hinge 900 can be made of a variety of suitable materials, such as metals, non-metals, polymers, composite materials, ceramics, and any combination thereof, and can also be manufactured in a variety of ways including injection molding. In one embodiment, for purposes of illustration, the living hinge 900 is made of polypropylene. As described in the above embodiments, the foam applicator 400 can be coupled to the bottom of the base plate 300. The mating of the bolt 221 and the opening 311 may be achieved mechanically by methods known in the art, including a one-way snap-fit ​​locking mechanism so that the connection cannot be undone.

[0065] In the use state, the bolt 221 of the handle is physically connected to the opening 311 of the base plate to maintain the relative angle 1103 between the base plate 300 and the handle 200. The angle in the use state can be predetermined and can be varied in the range of up to about 90°, more specifically, the handle 200 can be set at an angle of about 30° to about 60° as maintained by the bolt 221. Fig. 11CShow Fig. 11B 311, wherein the peg 221 is locked with the base plate 300. The base plate 300 defining the aperture 311 may include a radially outward protrusion, such as a flange or ridge, within the channel of the aperture to lock the peg 221 with the base plate 300 in a use state. In a use state, the foam applicator 400 of the fluid applicator device can clean or rub the surface 1000 to be cleaned, such as a part of the body, to kill microorganisms.

[0066] Although the disclosed subject matter is described herein in terms of certain embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and improvements may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the disclosed subject matter. In addition, although various features of one embodiment of the disclosed subject matter may be discussed herein or shown in the drawings of one embodiment and not shown in other embodiments, it is apparent that various features of one embodiment may be combined with one or more features of another embodiment or features from multiple embodiments.

[0067] In addition to the various embodiments depicted and claimed, the disclosed subject matter also relates to other embodiments having any other possible combination of features disclosed and claimed herein. Therefore, within the scope of the disclosed subject matter, the specific features presented herein may be combined with each other in other ways so that the disclosed subject matter includes any suitable combination of features disclosed herein. Therefore, for the purpose of illustration and description, the foregoing description of specific embodiments of the disclosed subject matter has been presented. The description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosed subject matter to those embodiments disclosed.

[0068] It is obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes can be made to the systems and units of the disclosed subject matter without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosed subject matter. Therefore, the disclosed subject matter is included in the modifications and changes within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A fluid applicator device comprising: a handle having a first end, a second end, and a length between the first end and the second end, wherein two fingers extend from the second end and define an opening therebetween; a base plate rotatably coupled to the handle, the base plate having a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the top surface comprises: a first support and a second support disposed on the top surface, and a rod disposed between the first support and the second support, wherein the rod is received in the opening between the two fingers, the second end of the handle being configured to at least partially rotate about the rod and being configured to lock with the rod in a use state; and A foam applicator is coupled to the bottom surface of the base plate and is configured to absorb and dispense a disinfecting solution, wherein a top surface of the base plate is proximate to the handle in a delivery state and the top surface is disposed at an angle to the handle in the use state.

2. The fluid applicator device of claim 1, wherein: The handle further includes at least a first protrusion at the second end, wherein the at least first protrusion extends from a first side of the handle to lock the handle with the base plate at the angle.

3. The fluid applicator device of claim 2, wherein: The first support includes a first slot disposed at the angle and configured to receive the first protrusion therein to lock the handle with the base plate at the angle.

4. The fluid applicator device of claim 3, wherein: The angle is predetermined and can be varied within a range of up to 90° relative to the top surface of the base plate.

5. The fluid applicator device of claim 3, wherein: The handle is axially translatable along the angle toward the base plate to lock the handle with the base plate in the use state.

6. The fluid applicator device of claim 5, wherein: The rod includes a first notch, and the handle further includes a first mating member disposed in the opening between the two fingers, the first mating member being receivable in the first notch of the rod to lock the handle with the base plate.

7. The fluid applicator device of claim 6, wherein: The first mating member includes a cam surface complementary to the first recess to prevent the handle from unlocking from the base plate when the fluid applicator device is in the use condition.

8. The fluid applicator device of claim 7, wherein: The lever further includes a second notch, and the handle further includes a second mating member disposed within the opening between the two fingers, the second mating member being receivable in the second notch to lock the handle with the base plate.

9. The fluid applicator device of claim 8, wherein: The second mating member includes a cam surface complementary to the second recess to prevent the handle from unlocking from the base plate when the fluid applicator device is in the use condition.

10. The fluid applicator assembly of claim 1, further comprising a set of fins extending from the top surface, the set of fins configured to retain the handle in the delivery state.

11. The fluid applicator assembly of claim 1 , wherein: The handle also includes a gripping rib at the first end configured to support a hand of a user.

12. The fluid applicator assembly of claim 1, wherein: The handle is coupled to the base plate by at least one of a snap-fit ​​connection or a living hinge.

13. A method of using a fluid applicator, comprising: A fluid applicator device is provided, comprising: a handle having a first end, a second end, and a length between the first end and the second end, wherein two fingers extend from the second end and define an opening therebetween; a base plate rotatably coupled to the handle, the base plate having a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the top surface comprises: a first support and a second support disposed on the top surface, and a rod disposed between the first support and the second support, wherein the rod is received in the opening between the two fingers, the second end of the handle being configured to at least partially rotate about the rod and being configured to lock with the rod in a use state; as well as a foam applicator coupled to the bottom surface of the base plate and configured to absorb and dispense a disinfecting solution, wherein a top surface of the base plate is proximate to the handle in a delivery state and the top surface is disposed at an angle to the handle in the use state; rotating the handle about the rod from a delivery position toward a use position; as well as An axial force is applied along the handle toward the base plate to lock the handle with the base plate in the use state.

14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising: At least a first protrusion extending from a first side of the handle is engaged with the first support to lock the handle with the base plate at the angle.

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein: The angle is predetermined and can vary within a range of up to about 90° relative to the top surface of the base plate.

16. The method according to claim 13, wherein: The lever includes a first notch, and the handle further includes a first mating member disposed within the opening between the two fingers.

17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising: The first mating member is engaged in the first recess to lock the handle with the base plate, wherein the first mating member includes a cam surface complementary to the first recess to prevent the handle from being unlocked from the base plate when the fluid applicator device is in use.

18. The method of claim 13, further comprising coupling the handle to the base by at least one of snap fitting the rod into the opening of the handle or connecting the handle to the base via a living hinge.

19. A fluid applicator device comprising: a handle having a first end, a second end, and a length between the first end and the second end, wherein two fingers extend from the second end and define an opening between the two fingers, wherein the handle further includes at least a first protrusion at the second end; a base plate rotatably coupled to the handle, wherein at least a first protrusion of the handle extends from a first side of the handle to lock the handle with the base plate at an angle, the base plate having a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the angle is predetermined and can vary within a range of up to about 90° relative to the top surface of the base plate, wherein the top surface comprises: a first support and a second support disposed on the top surface, and a rod disposed between the first support and the second support, wherein the rod is received in the opening between the two fingers, the second end of the handle being configured to at least partially rotate about the rod and to be locked with the rod in a use state, wherein the rod includes a first recess and the handle further includes a first mating member disposed in the opening between the two fingers, the first mating member being receivable in the first recess to lock the handle with the base plate; as well as A foam applicator is coupled to the bottom surface of the base plate and is configured to absorb and dispense a disinfecting solution, wherein a top surface of the base plate is proximate to the handle in a delivery state and the top surface is disposed at an angle to the handle in the use state.

20. The fluid applicator assembly of claim 19, wherein: The handle further includes a gripping rib surrounding the first end, the gripping rib being configured to support a hand of a user, and wherein the handle is coupled to the base plate using at least one of a snap-fit ​​connection or a living hinge.

21. A fluid applicator device comprising: a handle having a first end, a second end, and a length between the first end and the second end, the handle further comprising a peg disposed between the first end and the second end; a base plate rotatably coupled to the handle via a living hinge, the base plate having a top surface and a bottom surface, the base plate further defining an aperture configured to mate with the peg; as well as a foam applicator coupled to the bottom surface of the base plate and configured to absorb and dispense a disinfectant solution; The latch is configured to lock the handle to the base plate at a certain angle in a delivery state.

22. The fluid applicator assembly of claim 21, wherein: The angle is predetermined and can vary within a range of about 30° to about 60° relative to the top surface of the base plate.

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