Applicator for hazardous materials

Abstract

The present invention provides a pen-type harmful material applicator for applying a metal pre-treated material onto complex geometries, including blind holes, through holes, rivets, slits, chamfers, countersinks, countersinks, and other difficult-to-access surfaces.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese invention patent application No. 202080049643.9 (PCT / US2020 / 032206) filed on May 8, 2020 and entitled “Applicator for hazardous materials”. Technical Field

[0002] The invention described herein relates to the field of applicators for hazardous materials, and in particular to applicators for dispensing discrete and carefully controlled volumes of such materials. Background Art

[0003] Many chemical applicators and application methods are known. These devices and techniques include, for example, spray systems, pumping systems, immersion baths, etc. Different types of applicators include fiber markers, felt tip pens, capillary pens, etc.

[0004] There have been efforts in the past to improve the usability and safety of chemical application systems and methods when the flowing materials are hazardous, toxic or otherwise aggressive. In particular, in the field of metal coating and treatment, such efforts have involved the development of systems in which the user is physically disconnected from the article to be treated or coated by using equipment such as spray booths and immersion baths. A major disadvantage of such systems is that small defects in the coating or treatment are difficult to repair and require the entire article to be completely re-immersed or re-coated. This process can be particularly time-consuming and expensive because a small defect in the coating will require sufficient chemical or flowing material to be spent to re-treat the entire article.

[0005] Typically, aluminum or other metal parts for commercial and military systems are manufactured and then chemically treated on their surfaces to prevent corrosion using conventional batch processing techniques. This chemical treatment process is important in applications requiring electrical and thermal insulation or electrical conductivity, for example. However, after chemical treatment, many parts become scratched during subsequent handling or processing steps, which can remove a portion of the chemically treated corrosion protection layer from the part surface. Therefore, it may be necessary to treat the scratched area to restore the surface to its full chemically treated corrosion protection state.

[0006] The traditional method of repairing a scratched surface is to obtain a bottle of coating solution and then rub or otherwise apply the coating solution over the scratched area using a cotton ball, Q-tip, rag or sponge, etc. until the scratch is completely coated. In many cases, the shape of the part creates a number of problems when applying the coating solution to the surface.

[0007] The coating solution can be, and often is, a corrosive, hazardous material because it may contain, for example, large amounts of chromic acid, heavy metals, fluorides, ferrocyanide, and ferrocyanide. Conventional methods often apply excessive amounts of coating solution and often result in spills, creating hazardous conditions in the handling area. Conventional processes are messy, and large amounts of coating solution are wasted. Cotton balls, Q-tips, rags, or sponges, etc., used to apply or clean up the coating solution become hazardous waste due to their use, thus presenting a disposal problem.

[0008] Generally, coating solutions or flowable materials are of two types: those that require cleaning to remove excess coating material and those that do not require cleaning. The former may require cleaning because they tend to form crystals that produce undesirable surface roughness and are dangerous because these crystals, as well as any residual coating, are typically highly reactive, i.e., pH 1.5-4.5. Cleaning is necessary, but the resulting rinse water is corrosive because it is acidic and can be harmful or toxic to the environment, which creates a disposal problem. No-clean (NR) coating materials do not form crystals, can be formulated to be self-leveling, and do not require cleaning.

[0009] The inefficiency of early coating systems attempting to address small defects in coatings has been addressed to some extent by applicants' prior development of hand-held pen-type applicators for applying corrosive, hazardous or other chemical coating solutions to scratched surfaces. Specifically, U.S. Patents Nos. 5,702,759 and 6,217,935 (incorporated herein in their entirety by reference) disclose applicators and methods of using them to dispense various chemicals. Devices using this technology have been found to be most useful for repairing scratches on planar conversion coated aluminum surfaces. The advent of these marker or pen-type applicators has increased the efficiency and speed of addressing minor defects in coated metal surfaces and provided enhanced user and environmental safety by helping to isolate the user from reactive chemicals.

[0010] While the above-mentioned pen-type applicators have improved the industry, the inventors have found that coating surfaces having more complex geometries than flat surfaces remains problematic. Therefore, the inventors have determined that there remains a need in the art for improved pen-type hazardous material applicators that can be used to improve coating of non-planar or complex geometries, particularly for applications having blind holes, through holes, rivets, gaps, chamfers, countersunk holes, counterbores, and other difficult-to-access surfaces.

[0011] This background description is provided to assist with understanding the following explanation of exemplary embodiments and is not an admission that any or all of the background information is necessarily prior art. Summary of the invention

[0012] Various embodiments described herein are intended to address or ameliorate one or more deficiencies of existing pen-type applicator systems, and may include the following features: including, substantially containing, or containing means for supporting and / or increasing the rigidity of the core of the applicator, means for regulating flow from an applicator chamber containing flowable material to the core, and / or means for positioning the core at a non-zero angle relative to at least a portion of the applicator housing. Various embodiments of applicant's applicators may be used to apply material to complex geometries, particularly for applications having, as non-limiting examples, blind holes, through holes, rivets, gaps, chamfers, countersunk holes, counterbores, and other difficult-to-access surfaces.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention (“Aspect 1”), there is provided an applicator for hazardous materials, comprising: a housing (302, 402, 502, 602, 702, 802, 902, 1002, 1102, 1902) having a chamber (308, 408, 508, 608, 708, 808, 1008, 1108), an outlet (310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 1010, 1110), and a valve (314, 414, 514, 614, 714, 814, 1014, 1114) movable between a closed position in which the outlet is not in fluid communication with the chamber and an open position in which the outlet is in fluid communication with the chamber, the valve being configured to open the closed position. a valve spring (318, 418, 518, 618, 718, 818, 1018, 1118) biasing the valve in a closed position; and a core (312, 412, 512, 612, 712, 812, 912, 1012, 1112, 1912) movably connected to the housing and configured to transfer an axial load to the valve to move the valve from a closed position to an open position, the core comprising a material suitable for receiving fluid from an outlet and transferring the fluid to a position outside the housing; wherein the applicator is characterized by: a device (322, 422, 522, 622, 722, 824, 922, 1021, 1124, 1922, 1930) for supporting and / or increasing the stiffness of the core.

[0014] Further illustrative aspects of the invention can be summarized as follows:

[0015] Aspect 2. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the means for supporting and / or increasing the rigidity of the core comprises a tube (322, 522, 622, 824, 922, 1922) surrounding at least a portion of the core.

[0016] Aspect 3. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the tube surrounding the core includes one or more transverse openings (324, 530, 626, 924) extending through the tube wall.

[0017] Aspect 4. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the one or more lateral openings are located on the exterior of the housing.

[0018] Aspect 5. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the one or more lateral openings are located within the housing.

[0019] Aspect 6. An applicator according to any of the above aspects, wherein the core is mounted to the tube for movement between an extended position and a retracted position, and a core spring (526) is operably positioned between the core and the tube and configured to bias the core to the extended position.

[0020] Aspect 7. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the core spring has a lower spring constant than the valve spring.

[0021] Aspect 8. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the tube includes a trigger (624) located outside the housing, the trigger being configured to be operated to move the valve from a closed position to an open position.

[0022] Aspect 9. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the housing further comprises a gripping surface (628) spaced apart from the trigger, and the gripping surface is configured to be held to hold the housing against a force applied to the trigger.

[0023] Aspect 10. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the core comprises a selected one of different cores (812', 812', 812", 812", 812", 812'"), the different cores being interchangeably connectable to the tube.

[0024] Aspect 11. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the means for supporting and / or increasing the rigidity of the core comprises an inner support (422, 1124) at least partially surrounded by the core.

[0025] Aspect 12. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the core and preferably the inner support is bent or curved at a non-zero angle relative to the discharge opening.

[0026] Aspect 13. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the housing comprises a tip portion (1004) and a handle portion (1006), and the tip portion is movable relative to the handle portion.

[0027] Aspect 14. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the tip portion is connected to the handle portion by a swivel connection (1022).

[0028] Aspect 15. An applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the device for supporting and / or increasing the stiffness of the core comprises an inner fiber bundle forming a first portion of the core, the stiffness of the first portion being greater than that of a second portion of the core, the second portion comprising an outer layer, preferably, the outer layer comprising a cover or coating of a material or fiber that has been chemically and / or mechanically treated to reduce its stiffness.

[0029] According to another aspect of the present invention (“Aspect 16”), there is provided an applicator for hazardous materials, comprising: a housing (1302, 1402, 1502, 1602, 1702, 1802, 2002, 2102, 2202, 2402) having a chamber (1308, 1408, 1508, 1608, 1708, 1808, 2008, 2108, 2208, 2308, 2408); a discharge port (1310, 1410, 1510, 1610, 1710, 1810, 2010, 2110, 2210, 2310, 2410); a core (1312, 1412, 1513, 1614, 1715, 1816, 2010, 2110, 2210, 2310, 2414) connected to the discharge port; and a valve (1314, 1414, 1514, 1630, 1730, 1830, 2014, 2114, 2214, 2330, 2428, 2430) fluidly connected to the chamber and movable between a closed position and an open position, in which the valve fluidly disconnects the discharge port from the chamber and in which the valve fluidly connects the discharge port to the chamber; wherein the applicator is characterized by: means for regulating flow from the chamber to the core.

[0030] Aspect 17. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the means for regulating flow comprises a flexible wall (1322, 1422) of the chamber, the flexible wall being configured to be compressed to increase flow.

[0031] Aspect 18. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the housing comprises a flexible bottle forming the flexible wall, or a portion of the housing comprises a flexible membrane forming the flexible wall.

[0032] Aspect 19. An applicator according to any of the above aspects, wherein the means for regulating flow comprises a piston (1622, 1722, 1822, 2326) which is slidable within a cylinder (1624, 1708, 1808, 2328) and sealed to the cylinder (1624, 1708, 1808, 2328) to form a variable size chamber (1634) in communication with the core fluid, the piston being movable to reduce the volume of the variable size chamber to displace fluid from the variable size chamber to the core.

[0033] Aspect 20. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the piston and the cylinder are located in the housing.

[0034] Aspect 21. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the piston and cylinder are connected to the housing by a flexible tube (2322).

[0035] Aspect 22. An applicator of any of the above aspects, further comprising a spring (1618) configured to bias the piston to reduce the volume of the variable-size chamber, and wherein the piston is connected to the core so that a force applied to the core acts on the spring to move the piston to increase the volume of the variable-size chamber.

[0036] Aspect 23. An applicator of any of the above aspects, further comprising a spring (1718, 1818, 2318) configured to bias the piston to increase the volume of the variable-size chamber, and wherein the applicator comprises a button (1738, 1838, 2336) configured to be operated by a user to move the piston to decrease the volume of the variable-size chamber.

[0037] Aspect 24. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the valve comprises:

[0038] a first one-way valve (1630, 1730, 1834, 2330) located in a first passage extending through the piston and configured to open when the piston moves to increase the volume of the variable-size chamber and to close when the piston moves to decrease the volume of the variable-size chamber; and

[0039] A second one-way valve (1630, 1730, 1834, 2330) located in a second passage extending through the piston and configured to open when the piston moves to decrease the volume of the variable dimension chamber and to close when the piston moves to increase the volume of the variable dimension chamber.

[0040] Aspect 25. The applicator of any of the above aspects further comprising means for adjusting the travel distance of the piston.

[0041] Aspect 26. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the means for regulating flow from the chamber to the core comprises a trigger (624, 1738, 1838, 2004, 2124, 2224, 2324, 2424) configured to operate the valve, the trigger being separate from the core.

[0042] Aspect 27. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the trigger comprises a proximal portion (2004) of the housing, the proximal portion being movable relative to a distal portion (2006) of the housing to move the valve to an open position.

[0043] Aspect 28. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the trigger comprises a cam driver (2128, 2228) operable to move a cam (2126, 2226) connected to the valve.

[0044] Aspect 29. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the valve, cam driver and cam are located on the housing.

[0045] Aspect 30. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the valve, cam driver and cam are located on a flexible tube (2222) connecting the housing to the core.

[0046] Aspect 31. An applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the trigger includes a flexible chamber (2426), and the valve includes a first one-way valve (2428) located between the flexible chamber and the chamber and a second one-way valve (2430) located between the flexible chamber and the core, wherein the first one-way valve is configured to close when the flexible chamber is compressed and open when the flexible chamber is expanded, and the second one-way valve is configured to open when the flexible chamber is compressed and close when the flexible chamber is expanded.

[0047] According to another aspect of the present invention (“Aspect 32”), there is provided an applicator for hazardous materials, comprising: a housing (1002, 1202, 2002, 2102, 2202, 2408) extending in a longitudinal direction “L” and having a chamber (1008, 1208, 2008, 2108, 2208, 2308, 2408, 2508); a discharge port (1010, 1210, 2010, 2110, 2210, 2310, 2410, 2510); a core (1012, 1212, 2012, 2112, 2212, 2312, 2410) connected to the discharge port 2, 2512); and a valve (1014, 1214, 2014, 2114, 2214, 2330, 2428, 2430, 2514), the valve being fluidly connected to the chamber and movable between a closed position and an open position, in which the valve fluidly disconnects the discharge port from the chamber and in which the valve fluidly connects the discharge port to the chamber; wherein the applicator is characterized by: a device for positioning the core at a non-zero angle relative to at least a portion of the shell, preferably, the non-zero angle being greater than or equal to 1 degree relative to the longitudinal direction "L" of the shell.

[0048] Aspect 33. An applicator according to any of the above aspects, wherein the means for positioning the core relative to at least a portion of the housing comprises a proximal portion (1004, 2504) of the housing that is movable relative to a distal portion (1006, 2506) of the housing.

[0049] Aspect 34. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the proximal portion of the housing is connected to the distal portion of the housing by a rotational connection (1022) or a flexible section (2522).

[0050] Aspect 35. An applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the device for positioning the core at a non-zero angle relative to at least a portion of the shell includes a proximal portion (1204) of the shell, which is fixed at a non-zero angle relative to a distal portion (1206) of the shell, and the discharge port 1210 and the core 1212 are oriented along an axis A that is angled relative to the longitudinal direction L, and preferably, the valve 1214 and the spring 1218 are also oriented along the axis A.

[0051] Aspect 36. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the means for positioning the core at a non-zero angle relative to at least a portion of the housing comprises a flexible tube (2022, 2122, 2222, 2322, 2422).

[0052] Aspect 37. The applicator of any of the above aspects, further comprising means for regulating flow, the means comprising a flexible wall of the chamber (1008, 1208, 2008, 2108, 2208, 2308, 2408, 2508), the flexible wall being configured to be compressed to increase flow.

[0053] Aspect 38. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the housing (1002, 1202, 2002, 2102, 2202, 2302, 2402, 2502) comprises a flexible bottle forming a flexible wall, or a portion of the housing comprises a flexible membrane forming a flexible wall.

[0054] Aspect 39. The applicator of any of the above aspects also includes a device for regulating flow, which includes a piston (1624, 1722, 1822, 2326) that can slide in the cylinder (1624, 1708, 1808, 2328) and seal on the cylinder (1624, 1708, 1808, 2328) to form a variable size cavity (1634) connected to the core fluid, and the piston can move to reduce the volume of the variable size cavity to displace the fluid from the variable size cavity to the core.

[0055] Aspect 40. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the piston and the cylinder are located in the housing.

[0056] Aspect 41. The applicator of any of the above aspects, wherein the piston and cylinder are connected to the housing by a flexible tube.

[0057] Applicant's pen-type applicator can be used to dispense hazardous materials, such as metal pretreatment products, including but not limited to conversion coating materials, including but not limited to Cr(VI), Cr(III), non-Cr conversion coating materials, and cleaners, adhesion promoters and other compositions for metal pretreatment that are typically reactive and / or hazardous at an acidic or alkaline pH, as non-limiting examples, pH 1-5 or pH 9-14. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0058] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described strictly by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0059] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a prior art pen-type applicator.

[0060] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another prior art pen-type applicator.

[0061] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen applicator system of the present invention.

[0067] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0068] Fig. 10A and 10B is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0069] Fig.11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0070] Fig.12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0071] Fig.13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0072] Fig.14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0073] Fig.15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0074] Fig.16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0075] Fig.17 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0076] Fig.18A and 18B is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0077] Fig.19 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0078] Fig. 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0079] Fig.21A and 21B is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0080] Fig.22A and 22B is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0081] Fig.23 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0082] Fig.24 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention.

[0083] Fig.25 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the pen-type applicator of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0084] Pen-type applicators for dispensing hazardous chemicals are used in operating environments that are often unique to the particular industry associated with the chemical treatment being performed. For example, in the case of repair work on aircraft parts, pen-type applicators are often used by technicians who must perform dispensing operations safely, completely, and accurately while avoiding physical contact with the chemical and without error in dispensing material to surfaces or locations other than the intended treatment site. Technicians also often use dispensers in hazardous environments, such as on scaffolding or ladders that are high enough to treat parts of an aircraft, etc. The surface that needs to be treated can be located in virtually any position and orientation relative to the technician, so the technician must be able to reach in any direction (including straight up) to apply the chemical.

[0085] A conventional pen-type applicator 100 is shown in FIG. 1 . The applicator 100 has a housing 102 extending from a proximal end 104 to a distal end 106 in a longitudinal direction L. The housing forms a chamber 108 containing a flowable material. The proximal end 104 has an outlet 110 that provides a fluid passage from the chamber 108 to the external environment. A core 112 is located in and protrudes from the outlet 110. The core 112 preferably comprises a porous material, such as polyester or polyethylene, which guides the flowable material from the chamber 108 to the surface being treated. The housing 102 includes a collar 114 that extends radially from the housing 102 to form a disc-shaped protrusion. The size of the collar 114 is designed to prevent the applicator 100 from being placed in a typical pocket on the technician's clothing.

[0086] The core 112 is movably supported within the discharge port 110, such as by forming a component with a cooperating sliding shape or surface. A valve 116 is attached to the distal end of the core 112, and a spring 118 is disposed in the housing 102 to bias the valve 116 and the core 112 in a proximal direction. The spring 118 enables the core 112 and the valve 116 to move between a closed position, such as shown on the left side of FIG. 1 , and an open position, such as shown on the right side of FIG. 1 . In the closed position, the valve 116 contacts the corresponding wall of the chamber 108 to form a seal, preventing the flowable material from the chamber 108 from passing to the core 112. In the open position, the valve 116 is not sealed against the wall, and the flowable material is freely transferred to the core 112 by gravity, and then to the surface being treated.

[0087] 1 and 2 show two different arrangements of the chamber 108 and the spring 118. In FIG1 , the spring 118 is positioned between a distal support wall 120 and the valve 116, the support wall 120 being located between the proximal and distal ends of the chamber 108. The support wall 120 of FIG1 includes one or more openings 122 to allow the flowable material to move through the chamber 108. The configuration of FIG1 allows the distal end of the chamber 108 to be openable (e.g., by a nut 124) to replace the flowable material without disturbing or removing the spring 118. In FIG2 , the distal support wall 120 is formed as the distal end of the chamber 108, which is more suitable for a permanently sealed housing 102.

[0088] It has been found that conventional pen-type dispensers, such as those shown in Figures 1 and 2, may have certain drawbacks. For example, the size of the dispensing tip may be too large to fit into certain holes, or may not fully extend into certain openings. The elongated pen-type configuration also does not fit into relatively narrow spaces or into corners. In addition, the safety collar that extends radially from the pen body to prevent the device from being placed in a clothing pocket may hinder access to certain surfaces. Yet another drawback is that the core cannot fit into corners and other small or narrow spaces, which can result in insufficient coverage of the chemical on the treated surface. These drawbacks result in the need to use a supplemental device, such as a cotton swab, to fully treat portions of the surface that the core of the pen-type applicator cannot reach.

[0089] One potential modification to the prior art device is to make the core smaller in diameter or cross-section to be able to reach corners and narrower spaces. However, it has been found that making the core smaller can cause problems in operating the spring to open the valve. In typical use of the prior art device, the operator simply presses the core against a surface to dispense material. This operation is simple, convenient, and can be done with one hand, and is safer and easier to operate where the other hand can be used for support. Making the core smaller in diameter makes the core less rigid and less suitable for pressing against the closing force of the valve without bending or breaking, and the same problem occurs when the core is lengthened.

[0090] In one embodiment, the resistance or stiffness of the valve and spring is reduced to allow for a smaller core with reduced strength. This solves some application challenges, but a weaker spring may cause hazardous materials to leak, and the body of the pen may still hinder access to smaller application areas.

[0091] In another embodiment, a harder core material may be used, but this may have the disadvantage that the passage of the flowable material is impeded and may clog the core.

[0092] Reference now Figures 3 to 5 , the inventors have identified various other embodiments of methods that allow for smaller core diameters and / or greater core lengths without compromising the user's ability to use the core to depress the spring.

[0093] Figure 3 An example of an applicator 300 is shown having a housing 302 extending from a proximal end 304 to a distal end 306 with a chamber 308 for containing a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 302. An outlet 310 connects the chamber 308 to the external environment. A core 312 is located in the outlet 310 and protrudes from the outlet 310. A valve 314 is operably connected directly or through an intermediate component to the distal end of the core 312 to move with the core 312. The core 312 is movable in an extended position ( Figure 3 left side) and retracted position ( Figure 3 308 or the right side of the applicator 300). When the core 312 is in the extended position, the valve 314 abuts and seals against the corresponding first wall 316 (e.g., the wall of the chamber 308 or the surface of the valve assembly installed in the applicator 300) to prevent the flowable material from the chamber 308 from being transferred to the core 312. When the core 312 is in the retracted position, the valve 314 disengages from the first wall 316 and allows the flowable material to be transferred from the chamber 308 to the core 312. The spring 318 is located between the valve 314 and the second wall 320 (e.g., the wall of the chamber 308 or the surface of the valve assembly installed in the applicator 300). The spring 318 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses on the valve 314 to bias the core 312 to the extended position. An opposing force is applied along the core 312 to overcome the spring bias and move the core 312 to the retracted position.

[0094] Compared to the amount of force required to repeatedly move the core 312 from the extended position to the retracted position, Figure 3 Embodiments preferably have an undersized core 312. This means that the material and / or size of the core 312 is selected so that the core 312 will tend to bend under a retraction force applied to the core 312 distally in the longitudinal direction L during use and without the additional provisions discussed herein, rather than move to a retracted position with the valve open. An undersized core may not fail at the first activation, but after some use before the contents of the applicator are exhausted, it will result in material waste and possible spillage of the remaining contents of the applicator 300. The selection of the size and material of the core 312 to render it undersized compared to the biasing force of the spring 318 is a matter of conventional mechanics and can be determined mathematically or empirically without excessive experimentation and does not need to be described in detail herein. The durability of the core 312 in transmitting the retraction force is compensated by adding an external support tube 322 defining a lumen 326, which surrounds the core 312, supports and increases the rigidity of the core and at least partially extends the length 312 of the core longitudinally.

[0095] The outer support tube 322 can extend in the distal direction to contact the valve 314 and can be integrally formed with the valve 314, and can extend in the proximal direction to extend from or be flush with the discharge port 310 when the core 312 is in the retracted position, but other configurations are also possible. The support tube 322 and the core 312 together have sufficient strength to transfer the retraction force from the core 312 to the spring 318. Therefore, applying a distally directed retraction force to the core 312 in the longitudinal direction L will cause the core 312, the tube 322 and the valve 314 to retract, thereby allowing the flowable material to be transferred from the chamber 308 to the core 312. The tube 322 can include any suitable rigid material, such as thermoplastics, polymers, rubbers, etc. that are resistant to attack by the flowable material, and is preferably an interference fit with the core 312. However, it is not strictly required that the tube 322 is more rigid than the core 312, as long as the overall rigidity of the components is sufficient to transfer the retraction force to the spring 318. In addition, the core 312 and tube 322 can be somewhat flexible in the assembled state to allow the core 312 to be twisted / deformed to handle narrow spaces and corners. The tube 322 can be mounted on the core 312, such as by molding it in place on the core 312, wrapping it around the core 312 and sealing it to itself (e.g., by ultrasonic or heat welding or adhesive bonding), shrink fitting it to the core 312 (e.g., using a heat-sensitive thermoplastic that shrinks when heat is applied, pulling or press fitting the core 312 into the tube 322, or stretching the support tube 322 onto a tubular mandrel and removing the tubular mandrel when the tube 322 is around the core 312), etc.

[0096] The proximal end of the core 312 protrudes from the support tube 322 for a distance sufficient to provide the desired configuration characteristics for the flowable material. For example, if it is desired that the applicator 300 is mainly used to guide the material to the bottom of the recessed opening, the tube 322 can extend to be extremely close to the proximal end of the core 312. On the contrary, if the applicator 300 is intended to be used to coat the bottom and sides of the groove with material, there can be a longer core extension between the proximal end of the core 312 and the proximal end of the tube 322. The tube 322 may also include a transverse opening 324 communicated with the lumen 326 to provide an additional outlet for the flowable material to move perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L (i.e., in the transverse direction), which is expected to provide a greater degree of rigidity for the core 312 while still allowing transverse flow to help apply the material to the side of the groove. The distribution in the transverse direction can also be enhanced by forming the core 312 to extend outward from the lumen 326 of the tube 322 through the transverse opening 324. For example, the core 312 may include a soft material or soft outer layer material (eg, a layer of woven or non-woven felt-like material) that is compliant enough to protrude through the transverse opening 324 when the core 312 is disposed in the lumen 326 of the tube 322 .

[0097] Figure 4Another example of an applicator 400 is shown having a housing 402 extending from a proximal end 404 to a distal end 406, the housing having a chamber 408 for containing a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 402. An outlet 410 connects the chamber 408 to the external environment. A core 412 is located in the outlet 410 and protrudes from the outlet 410. A valve 414 is operably attached to the distal end of the core 412 directly or through an intermediate component to move with the core 412. The core 412 can be moved in the longitudinal direction L within the outlet 410 in an extended position ( Figure 4 left side) and retracted position ( Figure 4 408 or the right side of the valve assembly installed in the applicator 400). When the core 412 is in the extended position, the valve 414 abuts and seals against the corresponding first wall 416 (e.g., the wall of the chamber 408 or the surface of the valve subassembly installed in the applicator 400) to prevent the flowable material from the chamber 408 from transferring to the core 412. When the core 412 is in the retracted position, the valve 414 disengages from the first wall 416 and allows the flowable material to transfer from the cavity 408 to the core 412. The spring 418 is located between the valve 414 and the second wall 420 (e.g., the wall of the chamber 408 or the surface of the valve assembly installed in the applicator 400). The spring 418 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses on the valve 414 to bias the core 412 to the extended position. An opposing force is applied along the core 412 to overcome the spring bias and move the core 412 to the retracted position.

[0098] Compared to the amount of force required to move the core 412 from the extended position to the retracted position, Figure 4 Embodiments of the present invention also preferably have an undersized core 412. The inability of the core 412 to transmit the retraction force during the service life of the applicator 400 is remedied by reinforcing the core with an internal support 422, which is surrounded or partially surrounded by the core 412 and extends at least partially along the length of the core 412 in the longitudinal direction. The internal support 422 can extend in the distal direction to contact the valve 414 and can be integrally formed with the valve 414, and can extend in the proximal direction to extend from or be flush with the discharge port 410 when the core 412 is in the retracted position, but other configurations are also possible. The internal support 422 and the core 412 together have sufficient strength to transmit the retraction force from the core 412 to the spring 418. Therefore, applying a retraction force directed distally to the core 412 in the longitudinal direction L will cause the core 412, the internal support 422 and the valve 414 to retract, thereby allowing the flowable material to be transferred from the chamber 408 to the core 412.

[0099] The internal support 422 may include any suitable rigid material, such as metal, thermoplastic, polymer, rubber, etc. It is not strictly required that the internal support 422 is more rigid than the core 412, as long as the overall rigidity of the component is sufficient to transmit the retraction force to the spring 418. In addition, the core 412 and the internal support 422 can be flexible to some extent in the assembled state to allow the core 412 to deform to handle narrow spaces and corners. To this end, the internal support 422 can extend to terminate at or near the proximal end of the core 412 to help push the core material into the corner. The internal support 422 can be installed in the core 412 by, for example, molding it in place in a cavity in the core 412, pressing into the core material, etc.

[0100] The internal support 422 can have any shape that helps resist buckling or inelastic deformation loads on the core 412. For example, the internal support 422 can include one or more cylindrical protrusions from the valve 414. The internal support 422 can also be hollow, with an open space or core material located therein. A hollow internal support 422 without core material inside can be particularly helpful in delivering higher flow rate flowable materials to the proximal end of the core 412. Likewise, the internal support 422, and particularly the hollow internal support 422, can have lateral openings, such as about the attachment Figure 3 The lateral openings 324 described in the embodiment of the present invention are provided to provide additional lateral flow paths for the flowable material. Other alternatives and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure.

[0101] Figure 5 Another example of an applicator 500 is shown having a housing 502 extending from a proximal end 504 to a distal end 506, the housing having a chamber 508 for containing a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 502. An outlet 510 connects the chamber 508 to the external environment. A core 512 is located in the outlet 510 and protrudes from the outlet 510. A valve 514 is operably attached to the distal end of the core 512 directly or through an intermediate component to move with the absorbent core 512 in a two-stage motion as described below. The core 512 can be moved in the longitudinal direction L within the outlet 510 in an extended position ( Figure 5 left side) and retracted position ( Figure 5508 or the right side of the applicator 500). When the core 512 is in the extended position, the valve 514 abuts and seals against the corresponding first wall 516 (e.g., the wall of the chamber 508 or the surface of the valve assembly installed in the applicator 500) to prevent the flowable material from the chamber 508 from transferring to the core 512. When the core 512 is in the retracted position, the valve 514 disengages from the first wall 516 and allows the flowable material to transfer from the chamber 508 to the core 512. The first spring 518 is located between the valve 514 and the second wall 520 (e.g., the wall of the chamber 508 or the surface of the valve assembly installed in the applicator 500). The first spring 518 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses on the valve 514 to bias the core 512 to the extended position. An opposing force is applied along the core 512 to overcome the spring bias and move the core 512 to the retracted position.

[0102] In this case, the core 512 is slidably held within the support 522, and the support 522 is slidably held in the discharge port 510. The support 522 may be cylindrical or have other shapes to accommodate the cross-sectional profiles of the core 512 and the discharge port 510 (e.g., rectangular, square, oval, etc.). The support 522 includes a support cavity 524 in which the core 512 is slidable in the longitudinal direction L. The second spring 526 is located in the support cavity 524 between the distal end of the core 512 and the facing inner wall 528 of the support 522.

[0103] Compared to the force required to move the first spring 518 to disengage the valve 514, Figure 5 The embodiment preferably has an undersized core 512. However, the core 512 is not undersized compared to the required force to compress the second spring 526. Therefore, the second spring 526 has a lower spring constant than the first spring 518.

[0104] This embodiment provides a two-stage retraction operation. A force directed in the distal direction applied to the proximal end of the core 512 along the longitudinal direction L first compresses the second spring 526 until the core 512 retracts into the support cavity 524, and then compresses the support member 522 and the core 512 to the retracted position to disengage the valve 514. This embodiment overcomes the problem of having a core 512 that is too small to transmit the valve opening force by effectively increasing the stiffness of the core by retracting the core 512 into the rigid (or relatively rigid) support member 522. The support member 522 provides sufficient lateral support to transmit the retraction force and open the valve 514. When the core 512 is fully retracted in the support member 522 (such as Figure 5510 ), the core 512 may extend from the support member 522, or it may be pressed flush with the proximal end of the support member 522. The support member 522 also includes an opening sufficient to allow the flowable material to pass through the support member to the core 512. For example, the support member 522 may include a lateral opening 530 exposed to the chamber 508 when the valve 514 is disengaged. If desired, a seal such as an O-ring 532 may be provided between the support member 522 and the discharge port 510 to prevent the flowable material from leaking therefrom.

[0105] Reference now Figure 6 , other embodiments may include features that allow for the use of an undersized core, but without the need to support or reinforce the core to transmit the necessary force to disengage the valve. Figure 6 In the embodiment of the present invention, the applicator 600 has a housing 602 extending from a proximal end 604 to a distal end 606, and the housing 602 has a chamber 608 for containing a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 602. An outlet 610 connects the chamber 608 to the external environment. A core 612 is located in the outlet 610 and protrudes from the outlet 610. A valve 614 is operably connected directly or via an intermediate portion to the distal end of the core 612 to move with the core 612. The core 612 can be moved in the longitudinal direction L within the outlet 610 in an extended position ( Figure 6 left side) and retracted position ( Figure 6 608 or the right side of the applicator 600). When the core 612 is in the extended position, the valve 614 abuts and seals against the corresponding first wall 616 (e.g., the wall of the chamber 608 or the surface of the valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 600) to prevent the flowable material from the chamber 608 from passing to the core 612. When the core 612 is in the retracted position, the valve 614 disengages from the first wall 616 and allows the flowable material to pass from the chamber 608 to the core 612. The spring 618 is located between the valve 614 and the second wall 620 (e.g., the wall of the chamber 608 or the surface of the valve assembly mounted in the applicator 600). The spring 618 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses on the valve 614 to bias the core 612 to the extended position.

[0106] Compared to the force required to move the first spring 618 to disengage the valve 614, Figure 6Embodiments preferably have an undersized core 612. However, the core 612 is immovable within the support 622, and the support 622 is slidably retained in the discharge port 610. The support 622 can be cylindrical or have other shapes to accommodate the cross-sectional profile of the core 612 and the discharge port 610 (e.g., rectangular, square, oval, etc.). The support 622 is operably connected to the valve 614 so that a retraction force can be applied to the support 622 (in addition to or in place of the core 612) to disengage the valve 614. To this end, the support 622 may include a trigger 624 located outside the housing 602 to help the operator apply the retraction force. The support 622 may also include one or more openings 626 to allow the flowable material to pass from the chamber 608 to the core 612 when the valve 614 is disengaged.

[0107] The shape and size of the trigger 624 can be selected based on the expected needs of the operator. For example, the trigger 624 can include an annular plate around the core 612 (as shown), or other shapes that allow the operator to press the trigger using a finger or by pushing the entire assembly against a fixed surface (e.g., placing the trigger 624 against a rigid portion of the treated surface and pushing the applicator 600 forward). The trigger 624 can also be provided with an opposing gripping surface 628 (e.g., a ring suitable for receiving the operator's thumb or a plate for receiving the palm) to allow the operator to squeeze the trigger 624 against the gripping surface 628 to perform a single-handed opening of the valve 614. Or more seals such as an O-ring 630 or a gland seal can be provided between the support 622 and the discharge port 610 to reduce the possibility of leakage through them.

[0108] Figure 6 Embodiments of the invention allow for the use of a smaller core while still providing convenient and safe valve operation at the user's discretion. Figure 6 A variation of the embodiment is to slide the core 612 in a chamber within the support, with a second spring having a low spring constant biasing the core 612 to the extended position. This modification can provide Figure 5 Other embodiments may Figure 6 The trigger characteristics and Figure 3 and 4 In view of this disclosure, other alternatives and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0109] Another problem with existing pen-type applicators is the inability to fit the applicator into tight spaces and corners. This can be particularly problematic in recessed holes, unusually shaped holes, and where the original coating has been damaged by deep scratches. This problem is also found when applying coatings around rivets and other fasteners that have small openings and narrow gaps where they meet the underlying surface. Figure 7 and 8 An embodiment suitable for addressing this situation is shown.

[0110] Figure 7 An applicator 700 is shown having a housing 702 extending from a proximal end 704 to a distal end 706, the housing 702 having a chamber 708 for containing a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 702. An outlet 710 connects the chamber 708 to the external environment. A core 712 is located in the outlet 710 and protrudes from the outlet 710. A valve 714 is operably connected directly or through an intermediate portion to the distal end of the core 712 to move with the core 712. The core 712 can be moved in the longitudinal direction L within the outlet 710 in an extended position ( Figure 7 left side) and retracted position ( Figure 7 708 or the right side of the applicator 700). When the core 712 is in the extended position, the valve 714 abuts and seals against the corresponding first wall 716 (e.g., the wall of the chamber 708 or the surface of the valve subassembly installed in the applicator 700) to prevent the flowable material from the chamber 708 from passing to the core 712. When the core 712 is in the retracted position, the valve 714 disengages from the first wall 716 and allows the flowable material to pass from the chamber 708 to the core 712. The spring 718 is located between the valve 714 and the second wall 720 (e.g., the wall of the chamber 708 or the surface of the valve assembly installed in the applicator 700). The spring 718 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses on the valve 714 to bias the core 712 to the extended position.

[0111] The size of the core 712 may be undersized or undersized compared to the force required to compress the spring 718 to move the valve 714 to the retracted position. If the core 712 is undersized, other features such as those discussed above may be incorporated to accommodate or assist the operation of the valve 714.

[0112] The core 712 includes a central support portion 722 extending into the discharge port 710, and a flexible outer layer 724 surrounding or attached to the central portion 722. The outer layer 724 is more flexible than the central support portion 722, and the central support portion 722 can be composed of natural or synthetic fibers, (optionally composite) preferably polyester, polyurethane, acrylic, nylon and combinations thereof. For example, the central portion 722 may include a relatively hard polyester fiber bundle connected to form a column shape, and the outer layer 724 may include a separate cover or coating formed by a soft porous and / or fibrous material (e.g., felt, sponge, wool, cotton, etc.) of synthetic and / or natural origin. Such a cover can be removable or permanently attached to the rest of the core 712. As another example, the core 712 may include a rigid fiber bundle, wherein the internal fibers are collected to the rigid central support portion 722, and the external fibers are chemically or mechanically treated (e.g., roughened or chopped) to allow them to enter the softer outer layer 724. Optionally, a tube or hollow internal support as disclosed herein may replace the central support portion 722 to support and reinforce the core 712, in which case openings at the proximal end of the tube and / or lateral openings along the length of the tube or support may supply flowable material to the soft outer layer 724 of the core 712.

[0113] The relatively soft outer layer 724 can conform to surface irregularities to improve the applicator's ability to address cracks and corners by providing extended reach into cracks and corners. The softer outer layer 724 can also help distribute the flowable material in a lateral direction, which can help coat the inner walls of narrow holes. By making the diameter D of the softer outer layer 724 1 Greater than the diameter D of the adjacent portion of the central support portion 722 2 and is larger than the diameter D of the adjacent portion of the housing 702 3 , which can enhance this lateral application. This allows the proximal end of the core 712 to extend into the narrow hole while the flexible outer layer 724 applies the flowable material to the side surfaces of the hole.

[0114] Figure 8Another embodiment of an applicator 800 suitable for applying a flowable material to a small or oddly shaped area is shown. In this case, the applicator 800 has a housing 802 extending from a proximal end 804 to a distal end 806, the housing 802 having a chamber 808 for accommodating a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 802. An outlet 810 connects the chamber 808 to the external environment. One of a plurality of cores 812 may be attached to protrude from the outlet 810. A valve 814 may be operably connected directly or through an intermediate portion to the distal end of the installed core 812 to move with the core 812. The installed core 812 may slide between an extended position and a retracted position along a longitudinal direction L within the outlet 810. When the installed core 812 is in the extended position, the valve 814 abuts and seals against the corresponding first wall 816 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 808 or a surface of a valve subassembly installed in the applicator 800) to prevent the flowable material from the chamber 808 from passing to the installed core 812. When the installed core 812 is in the retracted position, the valve 814 disengages from the first wall 816 and allows the flowable material to pass from the chamber 808 to the core 812. The spring 818 is located between the valve 814 and the second wall 820 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 808 or a surface of a valve subassembly installed in the applicator 800). The spring 818 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses on the valve 814 to bias the installed core 812 to the extended position.

[0115] The size of the core 812 can be oversized or undersized compared to the force required to compress the spring 818 to move the valve 814 to the retracted position. If the core 812 is undersized, other features such as those discussed above can be combined to accommodate the allowable operation of the valve 814.

[0116] exist Figure 8 In an embodiment, a collection of different wicks 812 are available to be selectively installed in the discharge port 810. Each wick 812 can have a unique shape designed to treat a specific surface. For example, the wick 812 can include a chisel-tipped wick 812' with a tapered proximal end, a wick 812" with a spherical proximal end, a wick 812"' with a reverse-tapered proximal end, a wick 812"" with an enlarged cylindrical end, and a wick 812"" with a beveled or chisel tip. In view of this disclosure, other alternatives and modifications will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, and it will also be understood that these alternative wick shape embodiments can be used in other embodiments.

[0117] The core 812 has a corresponding shaft 822 that is configured to be releasably secured in a support carrier 824 that is slidably mounted in the discharge port 810. A seal, such as an O-ring (not shown), may be disposed between the carrier 824 and the discharge port 810. The carrier 824 is slidable relative to the housing 802 in the longitudinal direction L and is operably connected to the valve 814. The core 812 and the carrier 824 may be held together by a friction fit or by a mechanism such as a stop or bayonet fitting. The carrier 824 includes one or more openings, such as for example, Figure 5 The opening described in the embodiment of the present invention allows flowable material to pass from chamber 802 to core 812 when valve 814 is disengaged.

[0118] In use, the user selects the desired core 812, inserts it into the carrier 824 arranged in the discharge port 810, and uses the applicator 800 as usual, but with the customized ability to address hard to reach surfaces using the core 812 reinforced by the support carrier 824, which distributes the force applied to the tip of the actuating valve 814.

[0119] It will be appreciated that the foregoing embodiments may be used in conjunction with other embodiments described herein. As a non-limiting example, embodiments having a flexible outer layer 724 or replaceable core 812 may be used in conjunction with, for example, Fig.16 and 17 Used together with features such as the metering valve system in.

[0120] Another persistent problem with conventional pen-type applicator bodies is that they are sized to be easily manipulated by a user wearing protective gear and to contain a sufficient amount of flowable material, but are therefore not oriented to fit into a narrow space. Specifically, the pen-type applicator may be too long to fit into a narrow gap, and the collar 114 may be too large to allow the applicator to be tilted at a low angle to reach under a protrusion or the like. Figures 9 to 12 A variety of alternative applicators are shown that are designed to provide greater maneuverability to treat surfaces in confined spaces.

[0121] Fig. 9 An applicator 900 is shown having a housing 902 extending from a proximal end 904 to a distal end 906 and a core 912 extending from the proximal end 904. The applicator 900 also includes other features, such as a chamber for containing a flowable material, a valve, etc. In one embodiment, the core 912 is disposed within the lumen of a support tube 922, which is perforated by laterally extending holes 924, as described above with respect to Figure 3 However, other cores, including those described herein as non-limiting examples, may be used in other embodiments.

[0122] The housing 902 has an elongated and generally cylindrical shape and includes features such as ribs, knurling, etc. to allow a user with a gloved hand to operate the applicator 900. The housing features described may be included in other embodiments disclosed herein. Specifically, the housing 902 includes a plurality of longitudinal ribs 926 and a plurality of circumferential ribs 928. The longitudinal ribs 926 protrude from the adjacent outer surface of the housing 902 and extend along the longitudinal direction L (i.e., along the direction from the housing proximal end 904 to the housing distal end 906). The longitudinal ribs 926 provide enhanced grip and control to rotate the housing 902 around the longitudinal direction L. The circumferential ribs 928 extend radially from the longitudinal axis to surround the circumferential perimeter of the housing 902. The circumferential ribs 928 provide grip and control to move the housing 902 along the longitudinal direction L. Some or all of the circumferential ribs 928 may also have a proximal face that is tilted outward in the distal direction to provide a "sawtooth" arrangement to help enhance grip when pushing in the proximal direction. In general, longitudinal ribs 926 and circumferential ribs 928 are expected to provide enhanced grip and control of applicator 900, particularly if applicator 900 is made smaller than existing conventional devices and / or is manipulated to ensure adequate contact between surfaces in awkward locations and core 912. Fig. 9 The embodiment has longitudinal ribs 926 and circumferential ribs 928, but other embodiments may have only one type of rib, or neither.

[0123] Fig. 9 Also shown is an optional configuration of the collar 930. Specifically, the collar 930 is located on a cap 932 that is selectively secured to the housing 902 to cover and protect the core 912. The cap 932 may also have ribs (e.g., longitudinal ribs 934) to assist a user wearing gloves in installing and removing the cap 932. Fig. 9 The above-described cap and collar features shown in may be included in other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0124] Fig. 10A and 10B Another embodiment of an applicator 1000 configured for use in a confined space is shown. In this case, the applicator 1000 has a housing 1002 having a tip portion 1004 defining a proximal end and a handle portion 1006 defining a distal end. One or both portions 1004, 1006 have a chamber 1008 for holding a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 1002. An outlet 1010 connects the chamber 1008 to the external environment. Similar to Figure 6In the embodiment of the present invention, the core 1012 is located in the support member 1021, and the support member 1021 is slidably held in the discharge port 1010 and protrudes from the discharge port 1010. The valve 1014 is operably connected to the distal end of the support member 1021 directly or via an intermediate portion to move with the core 1012. The support member 1021 holding the core 1012 can slide between an extended position and a retracted position along the longitudinal direction L in the discharge port 1010. When the core 1012 is in the extended position, the valve 1014 abuts against and seals the corresponding first wall 1016 (e.g., the wall of the chamber 1008 or the surface of the valve subassembly installed in the applicator 1000) to prevent the flowable material from the chamber 1008 from passing to the core 1012. When the core 1012 is in the retracted position, the valve 1014 disengages from the first wall 1016 and allows the flowable material to pass from the chamber 1008 to the core 1012. The spring 1018 is located between the valve 1014 and a second wall 1020 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 1008 or a surface of a valve assembly mounted in the applicator 1000). The spring 1018 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses against the valve 1014 to bias the core 1012 to the extended position.

[0125] The housing 1002 may be in a first configuration as shown in FIG. 10a and in a second configuration as shown in FIG. Fig. 10B 1026. The tip portion 1004 is movable between the second configuration shown. In particular, the tip portion 1004 is connected to the handle portion 1006 by an articulated joint such as a rotating connector 1022. The rotating connector 1022 can include any movable joint, such as a pivot joint or a rotating joint. In the example shown, the rotating connector 1022 includes a rotating joint formed by a cylindrical boss 1024 extending from the tip portion 1004 and a cylindrical seat 1026 in the handle portion 1006. The boss 1024 fits into the seat 1026 and provides relative rotation between the tip portion 1004 and the handle portion 1006. The boss 1024 includes a lip 1028 or a fastener (e.g., a spring clip, a D-ring, etc.) that holds the components together. In this example, chamber 1008 is formed in both tip portion 1004 and handle portion 1006, and rotating connector 1022 has opening 1030 that also provides fluid communication between tip portion 1004 and handle portion 1006. One or more rotating seals (not shown) may be provided to prevent leakage through rotating connector 1022.

[0126] During use, the operator can rotate the tip portion 1004 relative to the handle portion 1006 to position the core 1012 at different angles. This can help reach confined spaces and also provide different hand positions for using the applicator 1000 in general use. To simplify the structure, the spring 1018 and valve 1014 are preferably located in the tip portion 1004, but this is not strictly required.

[0127] Fig.11 Another embodiment of an applicator 1100 configured for use in a confined space is shown. The applicator 1100 has a housing 1102 extending from a proximal end 1104 to a distal end 1106, and a chamber 1108 for holding a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 1102. An outlet 1110 connects the chamber 1108 to the external environment. A core 1112 is located in and protrudes from the outlet 1110. A valve 1114 is operably connected to the distal end of the core 1112 directly or via an intermediate portion to move with the core 1112. The core 1112 can slide between an extended position and a retracted position in the outlet 1110 along a longitudinal direction L. When the core 1112 is in the extended position, the valve 1114 abuts and seals against a corresponding first wall 1116 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 1108 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 1100) to prevent the flowable material from the chamber 1108 from passing to the core 1112. When the core 1112 is in the retracted position, the valve 1114 disengages from the first wall 1116 and allows the flowable material to pass from the chamber 1108 to the core 1112. The spring 1118 is located between the valve 1114 and the second wall 1120 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 1108 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 1100). The spring 1118 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses on the valve 1114 to bias the core 1112 to the extended position.

[0128] In the present embodiment, the core 1112 is configured to have a bent shape to reach laterally in a confined space, below a suspension, and in a corner. For example, the core 1112 may include a bundle of porous fibers, which is heated and bent to have an L-shaped foot 1122 that extends permanently laterally. The foot 1122 may be supported by an internal (or external) support 1124, such as a plastic rod extending along the core 1112. The support helps the foot 1122 portion of the core 1112 to maintain its shape, and may be used to drive the foot 1122 laterally deeper into a narrow space, and to press the bottom of the foot 1122 downward to process the bottom of the hole. Although an L-shaped foot is desired in the present embodiment, other embodiments may use a core with other shapes. For example, the proximal end of the core 1112 may be configured as a J-shaped hook (which may be particularly useful for reaching below a flange or rolled metal edge, such as an open hem) or have other shapes. In addition, the support 1124 may be omitted in other embodiments.

[0129] Fig.12Another embodiment of an applicator 1200 configured for use in a confined space is shown. The applicator 1200 has a housing 1202 extending from a proximal end 1204 to a distal end 1206 and a chamber 1208 for holding a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 1202. An outlet 1210 connects the chamber 1208 to the external environment. A core 1212 is located in the outlet 1210 and protrudes from the outlet 1210. A valve 1214 is operably connected to the distal end of the core 1212 directly or through an intermediate portion to move with the core 1212. The core 1212 can slide between an extended position and a retracted position within the outlet 1210. When the core 1212 is in the extended position, the valve 1214 abuts against and seals against a corresponding first wall 1216 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 1208 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 1200) to prevent the flowable material from the chamber 1208 from passing to the core 1212. When the core 1212 is in the retracted position, the valve 1214 disengages from the first wall 1216 and allows flowable material to pass from the chamber 1208 to the core 1212. The spring 1218 is located between the valve 1214 and the second wall 1220 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 1208 or a surface of a valve assembly mounted in the applicator 1200). The spring 1218 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses on the valve 1214 to bias the core 1212 to the extended position.

[0130] In this example, the outlet 1210 and the core 1212 are oriented along an axis A that is oblique to the longitudinal axis L. For simplicity, the valve 1214 and the spring 1218 are also oriented along the axis A, but this is not required in all embodiments. The axis A can be oriented at any desired angle relative to the longitudinal axis L, and 45° is a generally convenient angle for most applications. In other cases, the angle may be less than or greater than 45°. When used to treat the back of an article, an angle equal to or greater than 90° may be required, and it is conceivable that the core 1212 can be oriented at an angle as large as 180° relative to the rest of the applicator 1200. In view of this disclosure, other alternatives and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0131] Another shortcoming of traditional pen-type applicator is that it is difficult to control the flow of flowable material from chamber to core. Conventional systems as shown in Figures 1 and 2 allow the operator to open and close the valve, but there is no mechanism for forcing the flowable medium to flow into the core except by gravity, for example, by tilting or shaking the applicator. When the surface to be applied is located above the core, this is particularly problematic. Another problem related to flow control is that traditional applicators cannot measure the accurate amount of flowable medium, and when the valve is opened, even after the core is saturated, the flowable medium can continue to flow, which may cause dripping, gathering and waste. Figures 13 to 17Embodiments of applicators are shown that address one or more of these disadvantages.

[0132] Fig.13 An embodiment of an applicator 1300 is shown, and the applicator 1300 is configured to allow an operator to force a fluid medium from a chamber to a core configuration when a valve is opened. The applicator 1300 has a housing 1302 extending from a proximal end 1304 to a distal end 1306 and a chamber 1308 for holding a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 1302. An outlet 1310 connects the chamber 1308 to an external environment. A core 1312 is located in the outlet 1310 and protrudes from the outlet 1310. A valve 1314 is operably connected to the distal end of the core 1312 directly or through an intermediate portion to move with the core 1312. The core 1312 can slide between an extended position and a retracted position in the outlet port 1310. When the core 1312 is in the extended position, the valve 1314 abuts and seals against a corresponding first wall 1316 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 1308 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 1300) to prevent the flowable material from the chamber 1308 from passing to the core 1312. When the core 1312 is in the retracted position, the valve 1314 disengages from the first wall 1316 and allows the flowable material from the chamber 1308 to pass to the core 1312. The spring 1318 is located between the valve 1314 and the second wall 1320 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 1308 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 1300). The spring 1318 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses on the valve 1314 to bias the core 1312 to the extended position.

[0133] In this example, the housing 1302 and a portion of the chamber 1308 include a flexible wall portion that is Fig.13 13 is shown as being formed from a flexible bottle 1322, but may take other forms. Fig.13 , the flexible bottle 1322 can be squeezed to create internal pressure to force the flowable material toward the core 1312, which provides the benefit of faster core saturation when the valve 1314 is opened. For example, the flexible bottle 1322 can be made of a flexible plastic material. The flexible bottle 1322 can also be transparent to view the contents of the chamber 1308. The flexible bottle 1322 can be permanently or removably attached to the rest of the housing 1302. In this example, the proximal end of the bottle 1322 is threaded into a collar 1324 located on the rigid portion of the housing 1302 and can be removed to refill the bottle 1322. In other embodiments, the flexible bottle 1322 can be fixed to the rest of the housing 1302 by a permanent connection.

[0134] The flexible bottle 1322 and the rest of the housing 1302 are aligned along the longitudinal direction L, but this is not strictly required. In other examples, the flexible bottle 1322 can be threaded into or otherwise attached to protrude laterally from the rest of the housing 1302 or protrude at a certain angle relative to the rest of the housing 1302. The flexible bottle 1322 can also be partially surrounded by the housing 1302, wherein a portion of the bottle 1322 is exposed to allow a user to bend the bottle wall to force the flowable material toward the core. The flexible bottle 1322 can also be completely enclosed in the housing 1302 and squeezed by a force applied by a middle portion such as a plunger located on the side end of the housing 1302. Although shown as having a cylindrical shape, the flexible bottle 1322 can have alternative shapes.

[0135] The flexible bottle 1322 shown is intended to return to its original shape after a twisting force is applied so as to act as a handle that can be grasped by a user. However, in another alternative, the flexible bottle 1322 may include a bag-like structure (e.g., a bladder) that collapses during use. Other alternatives and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure.

[0136] Fig.14 An embodiment of an applicator 1400 is shown, and the applicator 1400 is configured to allow an operator to force a fluid medium to be configured from a chamber to a core. The applicator 1400 has a housing 1402 extending from a proximal end 1404 to a distal end 1406 and a chamber 1408 for holding a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 1402. An outlet 1410 connects the chamber 1408 to an external environment. A core 1412 is located in the outlet 1410 and protrudes from the outlet 1410. A valve 1414 is operably connected to the distal end of the core 1412 directly or via an intermediate portion to move with the core 1412. The core 1412 can slide between an extended position and a retracted position in the outlet 1410. When the core 1412 is in the extended position, the valve 1414 abuts and seals against a corresponding first wall 1416 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 1408 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 1400) to prevent the flowable material from the chamber 1408 from passing to the core 1412. When the core 1412 is in the retracted position, the valve 1414 disengages from the first wall 1416 and allows the flowable material from the chamber 1408 to pass to the core 1412. The spring 1418 is located between the valve 1414 and the second wall 1420 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 1408 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 1400). The spring 1418 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses on the valve 1414 to bias the core 1412 to the extended position.

[0137] In this example, a portion of chamber 1408 is formed as a user-accessible flexible membrane 1422. When valve 1414 is open, the user can depress flexible membrane 1422 to create internal pressure in chamber 1408 to force the flowable material toward core 1412. Alternatively, core-operated valve 1414 can be omitted and replaced with a valve, such as with respect to Fig.24 The valve described above automatically opens when sufficient pressure is applied to the flexible membrane 1422 to move the flowable material from the chamber 1402 to the core 1412.

[0138] The flexible membrane 1422 may include any suitable flexible material, and it may be transparent to allow viewing into the chamber 1408. The flexible membrane 1422 may also be located under a removable cover to prevent inadvertent operation. The flexible membrane 1422 may also be located inside the housing 1402 and operated by an intermediate device, such as a button or plunger through a wall of the housing 1402. Other alternatives and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure.

[0139] Fig.15 An embodiment of an applicator 1500 is shown, which is configured to prevent excessive deposition of flowable material when the core is moved to a fully retracted position. The applicator 1500 has a housing 1502 extending from a proximal end 1504 to a distal end 1506 and a chamber 1508 for holding flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 1502. An outlet 1510 connects the chamber 1508 to the external environment. A core 1512 is located in the outlet 1510 and protrudes from the outlet 1510. A valve 1514 is operably connected to the distal end of the core 1512 directly or through an intermediate portion to move with the core 1512. The core 1512 can slide between an extended position and a retracted position in the outlet 1510. When the core 1512 is in the extended position, the valve 1514 abuts and seals against a corresponding first wall 1516 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 1508 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 1500) to prevent the flowable material from the chamber 1508 from passing to the core 1512. When the core 1512 is in the retracted position, the valve 1514 disengages from the first wall 1516 and allows the flowable material from the chamber 1508 to pass to the core 1512. The spring 1518 is located between the valve 1514 and the second wall 1520 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 1508 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 1500). The spring 1518 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses on the valve 1514 to bias the core 1512 to the extended position.

[0140] In this example, valve 1514 is located in subchamber 1522, which is located between the main volume of chamber 1508 and core 1512. Subchamber 1522 is fluidly connected to the main volume of chamber 1508 through passage 1524, and spring 1518 can be located in subchamber 1522, as shown, or it can extend through opening 1524. Valve 1514 has a secondary seal 1526, which abuts and closes passage 1524 when core 1512 and valve 1514 are moved to the fully retracted position. Any type of sealing surface can be used (e.g., end seal, conical seal (as shown), metering needle, etc.). When the core is fully retracted, this configuration prevents the flowable material from continuing to pass through the core and provides some measure of preventing over-dispensing of material.

[0141] Fig.16 An example of an applicator 1600 is shown that prevents over-dispensing of flowable material when the core is retracted and provides accurate metering of a fixed volume of flowable material when the core returns from the retracted position to the extended position. The applicator 1600 has a housing 1602 extending from a proximal end 1604 to a distal end 1606 and a chamber 1608 for holding the flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 1602. An outlet 1610 connects the chamber 1608 to the external environment. The core 1612 is located in the outlet 1610 and protrudes from the outlet 1610. The valve 1614 is operably connected directly or through an intermediate portion to the distal end of the core 1612 to move with the core 1612. The core 1612 can slide between an extended position and a retracted position within the outlet 1610. When the core 1612 is in the extended position (shown in Fig.16 1600), valve 1614 abuts and seals against a corresponding first wall 1616 (e.g., a wall of chamber 1608 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in applicator 1600) to prevent flowable material from passing from chamber 1608 to core 1612. Fig.16 1600), valve 1614 disengages from first wall 1616 and allows flowable material to pass from chamber 1608 to core 1612. Spring 1618 is located between valve 1614 and second wall 1620 (e.g., a wall of chamber 1608 or a surface of a valve assembly mounted in applicator 1600). Spring 1618 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses on valve 1614 to bias core 1612 to the extended position.

[0142] In this example, the valve 1614 includes an assembly having a piston 1622 connected to move with the core 1612 and slide within a cylinder 1624. The periphery of the piston 1622 has one or more seals 1626 (e.g., O-rings or wiper seals) that contact the cylinder 1624 to prevent the flow of flowable material at this sliding intersection. The valve 1614 or the first wall 1616 may also have a face seal 1628 (e.g., O-rings or packing) to seal the core 1612 when the core 1612 is in the extended position. The piston 1622 includes one or more one-way valves 1630 that are configured to open when the core 1612 and the piston 1622 move from the extended position to the retracted position to allow the flowable material to pass through the piston 1622, and to close when the core 1612 and the piston 1622 move from the retracted position to the extended position to prevent the flowable material from passing through the piston 1622.

[0143] The one-way valve 1630 may include any suitable mechanism that allows flow in one direction but prevents flow in the other direction. The valve 1630 shown is a poppet valve, but other examples include ball valves, flapper valves, and reed valves. Such devices typically include a separate or integral spring to hold the valve in a closed position, and the shape of the valve and valve seat is such that excess hydraulic pressure on one side of the valve forces the valve into the valve seat to maintain the seal, while excess hydraulic pressure on the other side of the valve forces the valve away from the valve seat against the bias of the spring to open the seal. Such devices are conventional and need not be described in more detail herein.

[0144] Peripheral seal 1626 and one-way valve 1630 cooperate to form a chamber 1634 of variable size between piston 1622 and core 1612. When core 1612 moves to the retracted position, chamber 1634 expands and is filled with flowable material, and when core 1612 moves to the extended position, chamber 1634 contracts. During this extension, seal 1626 and one-way valve 1636 generate pressure on the flowable material to force it into core 1612. The magnitude of the force depends on the spring constant of spring 1618. The size of chamber 1634 can be selected to provide a desired volume of flowable material during each stroke toward the extended position. If necessary, chamber 1634 can also include a mechanism (e.g., a movable wall) for changing its volume to allow the operator to adjust the distribution volume. Applicator 1600 can also include a scale to indicate how much volume is distributed as the operator retracts core 1612 backwards. Other alternatives and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure.

[0145] In this embodiment, the cylinder 1624 is optionally separated from the rest of the chamber 1608 by an intermediate wall such as the second wall 1620, and a one-way valve 1632 may be provided in the passage fluidly connecting the chamber 1608 to the piston. When the core 1612 is moved to the retracted position, the one-way valve 1632 prevents the flowable material from leaving the cylinder 1624. This helps ensure that the flowable material will be forced through the one-way valve 1630 in the piston 1622 to fill the variable-sized chamber 1636.

[0146] Fig.17 Another example of an applicator 1700 is shown that prevents overdispensing of flowable material and provides accurate metering of a fixed volume of flowable material. The applicator 1700 has a housing 1702 extending from a proximal end 1704 to a distal end 1706 and a chamber 1708 for holding the flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 1702. An outlet port 1710 connects the chamber 1708 to the external environment. A core 1712 is located in the outlet port 1710 and protrudes from the outlet port 1710. In this case, the core 1712 can be rigidly fixed in the outlet port 1710, and the valve is replaced by a movable piston 1722 that slides within the chamber 1708. The piston 1722 acts as a valve. Similar to Fig.16 In an embodiment of the present invention, the piston 1722 has a peripheral seal 1726 that seals against the chamber wall, and one or more one-way valves 1730 that prevent the flowable material from passing through the piston 1722 when the piston moves toward the core 1712, but allow the flowable material to pass through the piston 1722 when the piston is retracted from the core 1712. In this case, the one-way valve 1730 is shown as a flapper or reed valve (i.e., a flexible cantilever flapper covering the hole). The spring 1718 is located between the piston 1722 and the core 1712 and is configured to bias the piston 1722 away from the core 1712.

[0147] The piston 1722 is manually operated by the user to move against the bias of the spring 1718. Any suitable mechanism may be used to provide such control. For example, the piston 1722 may be connected to a rod 1732 that extends through an opening 1734 at the distal end 1706 of the housing 1702. A seal 1736 (e.g., a sliding seal or a gland seal) prevents the flowable material from leaving the sliding intersection. The rod 1723 may terminate at its distal end with an enlarged button 1738. A flexible membrane 1740 may also be provided to seal the end of the rod 1723 and provide an additional measure to prevent the flowable material from leaving the housing 1702 at this position. In use, the operator presses the button 1738 to move the piston from a retracted position ( Fig.17 to the extended position ( Fig.17During this movement, the one-way valve 1730 is closed and the flowable medium between the piston 1722 and the core 1712 is forced into the core 1712. If desired, an additional flow passage and check valve may be provided between the button 1738 and the piston 1722 to force the flowable material through the one-way valve 1730 in the piston 1722 when the piston moves to the retracted position, as described with reference to FIG. Fig.16 In view of this disclosure, other alternatives and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0148] Another problem with current pen-type applicators is that it is not possible to reverse the movement of the flowable material out of the core and back into the chamber except by turning the applicator over and depressing the core. Even then, the core tends to retain the flowable material by capillary action, and the atmospheric pressure on the exposed side of the core is insufficient to overcome this capillary action. This problem is at least partially addressed by the embodiments of Figures 18a and 18b.

[0149] Applicator 1800 has a housing 1802 extending from a proximal end 1804 to a distal end 1806 and a chamber 1808 for holding a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on housing 1802. An outlet 1810 connects chamber 1808 to the external environment. A core 1812 is located in and protrudes from outlet 1810. In this case, core 1812 may be rigidly fixed in outlet 1810 and the valve is replaced by a movable piston 1822 that slides within chamber 1808. Similar to Fig.16 In an embodiment of the present invention, the piston 1822 has a peripheral seal 1826 that seals against the chamber wall, and one or more first one-way valves 1830 that prevent the flowable material from passing through the piston 1822 when the piston moves toward the core 1812, but allow the flowable material to pass through the piston 1822 when the piston is retracted from the core 1812. The piston 1822 can be moved by a control rod 1832, and a spring 1818 is provided to bias the piston 1822 away from the core 1812. Thus, similar to Fig.17 In the embodiment, piston 1822 moves by pressing against control rod 1832 against the bias of spring 1818.

[0150] The piston 1822 also has one or more second one-way valves 1834 configured in a manner opposite to the first one-way valves 1830, i.e., the second one-way valves 1834 allow flowable material to pass through the piston 1822 when the piston 1822 moves toward the core 1812, but prevent flowable material from passing through the piston 1822 when the piston 1822 moves away from the core 1812. A valve controller 1836 is provided to selectively enable the first one-way valve 1830 or the second one-way valve 1834. In this case, the valve controller 1836 includes a cover that is pivotally attached to the piston control rod 1832 and is connected to a knob 1838 located outside the housing 1802 via a tube 1840 surrounding the piston control rod 1832. The position of the piston 1822 is controlled by pushing down or pulling up on the knob 1838, and the valve controller 1836 is operated by rotating the knob 1838. When the valve controller 1836 is oriented to cover the first one-way valve 1830, as shown in FIG. Fig.18A As shown, the first one-way valve 1830 is disabled and the second one-way valve 1834 is enabled. When the valve controller 1836 is oriented to cover the second one-way valve 1834, as shown in FIG. Fig.18B As shown, the first one-way valve 1830 is enabled and the second one-way valve 1834 is disabled. Fig.18B The spring 1818 is shown without to illustrate the open position of the first one-way valve 1830. ) In use, an operator can push and pull the knob 1838 to move the piston toward or away from the core 1812, and can rotate the knob 1838 to operate the valve controller 1836.

[0151] As with other embodiments, various seals and covers may be provided to prevent flowable material from leaking around knob 1838. A fixed travel stop (not shown) may be provided within chamber 1802 to prevent piston 1822 from retracting further than desired. One or more adjustable travel stops, such as screws 1842 and 1844, may also be provided to selectively control the range of travel of the piston. In this case, first screw 1842 may be adjusted to control the distance that piston 1822 may be retracted from core 1812 (e.g., by abutting piston 1822), and second screw 1844 may be adjusted to control the distance that piston 1822 may move toward core 1812 (e.g., by abutting knob 1838). Other alternatives and variations will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure.

[0152] The embodiment of Figures 18a and 18B provides a unique advantage in that it allows an operator to operate the valve controller 1836, thereby controlling whether the piston 1822 pumps the flowable material toward the core 1812 or away from the core 1812. Thus, when the core 1812 becomes oversaturated, or when the preparation operation is completed, the operator can pull the flowable material away from the core 1812. It will be understood that other embodiments can use alternative flow control mechanisms. For example, the rotating plate flow controller 1836 can be replaced by any suitable alternative mechanism, such as a cam-operated pin that extends to lock one check valve or another check valve.

[0153] Another problem with conventional pen-type applicators is that they cannot be used to enter narrow and deep openings, and even if the applicator is made relatively small, it still cannot reach around certain corners or other obstacles to apply material in certain areas. These problems can be solved by Figure 19-23 The embodiments at least partially solve the problem.

[0154] Fig.19 An applicator 1900 is shown having a housing 1902 extending from a proximal end 1904 to a distal end 1906 and an extension rod 1922 extending from the proximal end 1904. A core 1912 extends from the proximal end of the extension rod 1922. The applicator 1900 also includes other features, such as a chamber for containing a flowable material, a valve, etc. The extension rod 1922 comprises a physical extension of the housing 1902 and may be rigid or have some flexibility to allow a user to accurately guide the core 1912 into a narrow space. The housing 1902 may include one or more types of ribs, such as ribs for Fig. 9 The ribs described above are provided to enhance the user's control over the applicator 1900. Any suitable trigger mechanism can be provided to actuate the internal valve to dispense the flowable material. For example, the core 1912 can extend the full length of the extension rod 1922 and can be moved to activate the valve located in the housing 1902. As another example, the core 1912 can be slidably held just at the end of the extension rod 1922 and provided with a push rod to activate the valve located in the housing 1902. As yet another example, the valve can be located at the proximal end of the extension housing, adjacent to the core 1912, to allow the core 1912 to perform more localized operations. Alternatively, the extension rod 1922 can be a hollow tube, the core 1912 is fixed in the cavity of the tube, and the valve can be located in the housing or in the tube near the end, and the valve is actuated by a trigger on the housing or the tube. As with other embodiments, a cap 1924 can be provided to cover the core 1912 when the device is not in use.

[0155] Fig.19The embodiment of the present invention provides advantages when processing surfaces in deep grooves. This function is enhanced by making the extension rod 1922 relatively narrow compared to the housing 1902 and not significantly larger than the core 1912 (and preferably approximately the same diameter as the core 1912). In this example, the diameter of the extension rod 1922 is no more than about 20% larger than the maximum diameter of the core 1912, and more preferably no more than 10% larger. Alternatively, the core 1912 can be similar to Figure 7 The core extends beyond the diameter of the rod by 1-50% or more, preferably not more than 10%.

[0156] Fig.19 An alternative embodiment of the core 1912 is also shown, in which the core 1912 has a stepped shape. The proximal end 1926 of the core 1912 is relatively small and soft and bendable to fit into narrow spaces and corners, while the distal end 1928 of the core 1912 is relatively large and hard enough to be pressed against a surface with a certain force to activate the valve and deposit the flowable material. Optionally, the transition portion 1930 of the core 1912 between the proximal end 1926 and the distal end 1928 can be shaped to address specific features that may be encountered during the use of the applicator 1900. For example, the transition portion 1930 can be tapered to facilitate the application of the flowable material to the chamfered opening that receives a corresponding tapered fastener head for a flush valve seat of the fastener head. Other embodiments may use more than one proximal tip 1926. For example, the core 1912 may have multiple flexible "fingers" extending from it in one or more directions. In view of this disclosure, other alternatives and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Such a core may be used in any of the other embodiments described herein.

[0157] Fig. 20Another embodiment of an applicator 2000 is shown, which is used to treat surfaces that are remote or relatively difficult to reach. Here, the applicator 2000 has a housing 2002 extending from a proximal end 2004 to a distal end 2006, with a chamber 2008 for containing a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 2002. An outlet 2010 connects the chamber 2008 to the external environment. A flexible hollow tube 2022 extends from the outlet 2010, and a core 2012 is located within the cavity of the flexible hollow tube and protrudes from it. A valve 2014 is operably connected to the proximal end 2004 of the housing 2002, and the proximal end 2004 of the housing 2002 is movable relative to the distal end 2006 of the housing 2002. For example, the proximal end 2004 may include a piston-like structure assembled into a cylindrical structure formed in the distal end 2006. A seal 2024 may be provided to prevent leakage at the sliding joint. When the distal end 2002 is in the extended position, the valve 2014 abuts and seals against a corresponding first wall 2016 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 2008 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 2000) to prevent the flowable material from the chamber 2008 from passing to the core 2012. When the proximal end 2004 is in the retracted position, the valve 2014 disengages from the first wall 2016 and allows the flowable material to pass from the chamber 2008 to the core 2012. The spring 2018 is located between the valve 2014 and the second wall 2020 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 2008 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 2000). The spring 2018 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses against the valve 2014 to bias the proximal end 2004 to the extended position.

[0158] In use, an operator can squeeze the housing 2002 with one hand to move the proximal end 2004 toward the distal end 2006. This movement disengages the valve 2014 against the bias of the spring 2018 and allows the flowable material to flow from the chamber 2008 to the core 2012, thereby wetting the core 2012. When the user releases the pressure, the spring 2018 separates the proximal end 2004 and the distal end 2006 to seat the valve again and seal the applicator 2000. The user can then direct the core 2012 into contact with the surface to be coated by moving the entire applicator 2000, or by grasping and manipulating the tube near the core 2012.

[0159] This embodiment provides a relatively simple structure for an applicator 2000 having a flexibly mounted core 2012. The lumen 2022 may include any suitable material, such as a flexible polymer or rubber. The lumen 2022 may also be filled with the core material, or filled with capillaries to prevent the free flow of flowable material from the core 2012 when the device is not in use. As with other embodiments, a flexible cap 2026 may be provided on the core 2012 and may help to handle narrow cracks or holes, or other confined spaces with uneven surfaces (where the core 2012 may not be manipulated), or may be flexible enough to conform to surface irregularities.

[0160] Fig.21A and 21B Another embodiment of an applicator 2100 is shown, which is intended to treat remote or relatively difficult to reach surfaces. Here, the applicator 2100 has a housing 2102 extending from a proximal end 2104 to a distal end 2106, with a chamber 2108 for containing a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 2102. An outlet 2110 connects the chamber 2108 to the external environment. A flexible lumen 2122 extends from the outlet 2110, and a core 2112 is located in and protrudes from the flexible lumen 2122. A valve 2114 is provided in the housing 2102 to selectively prevent the flowable material from flowing from the chamber 2108 to the core 2112. In this case, the valve 2114 is operated by a trigger 2124 located on the side of the housing 2102. The valve 2114 is movable between a first position (FIG. 21a) and a second position (FIG. 21b). In the first position, the valve 2114 abuts and seals against a corresponding first wall 2116 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 2108 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 2100) to prevent the flowable material from the chamber 2108 from passing to the core 2112. In the second position, the valve 2114 is disengaged from the first wall 2116 and allows the flowable material to pass from the chamber 2108 to the core 2112. The spring 2118 is located between the valve 2114 and the second wall 2120 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 2108 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 2100). The spring 2118 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses on the valve 2114 to bias the valve 2114 to the first position.

[0161] The trigger 2124 may include any suitable mechanism. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the trigger 2124 includes a cam 2126 connected to the valve 2114, and a cam driver 2128 movably mounted to the housing 2102. The cam driver 2128 is a structure that abuts the cam 2126. The cam driver 2128 is movable between a first position (FIG. 21a) and a second position (FIG. 21b), in which the cam driver 2128 allows the valve 2114 to move to the first (i.e., closed) position, and in which the cam driver 2128 pushes on the cam 2126 to hold the valve 2114 in the second (i.e., closed) position. The cam driver 2128 may be pivotally, slidably, rotatably, or otherwise movably mounted to the housing 2102. In this case, the cam driver 2128 is pivotally mounted to the housing, and a return spring 2130 may be provided to bias the cam driver 2128 to the first position. Any suitable seal may be used to prevent leakage of the flowing material around the trigger component. In this case, the seal is provided by a flexible cover 2132 covering the cam driver 2128. In use, an operator depresses the cam driver 2128 to open the valve 2114 and dispense the flowable material into the core 2112.

[0162] Fig.22A and 22B Another embodiment of an applicator 2200 is shown that is intended to treat remote or relatively difficult to reach surfaces. Here, the applicator 2200 has a housing 2202 extending from a proximal end 2204 to a distal end 2206, having a chamber 2208 for containing a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 2202. An outlet 2210 connects the chamber 2208 to the external environment. A flexible tube 2222 extends from the outlet 2210 to a valve assembly 2224. A core 2212 protrudes from the valve assembly 2224. The valve assembly 2224 is configured to selectively prevent the flowable material from flowing from the tube 2222 to the core 2212. In this case, the valve assembly 2224 includes a first position (Figure 22a) and a second position (Figure 22b). Fig. 22B ) between the first wall 2220 and the core 2212. In the first position, the valve 2214 abuts and seals against the corresponding first wall 2216 to prevent the flowable material from passing to the core 2212. In the second position, the valve 2214 disengages from the first wall 2216 and allows the flowable material to pass to the core 2212. A spring 2218 is located between the valve 2214 and the second wall 2220. The spring 2218 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses on the valve 2214 to bias the valve 2214 to the first position.

[0163] The valve assembly 2224 includes any mechanism suitable for operating the valve 2214. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the valve assembly 2224 includes a cam 2226 connected to the valve 2214, and a cam driver 2228 movably mounted to the trigger assembly 2224. The cam driver 2228 is a structure that abuts the cam 2226. The cam driver 2228 can be in a first position (Figure 22a) and a second position (Figure 22b). Fig. 22B ) between a first position in which the cam driver 2228 allows the valve 2214 to move to the first (i.e., closed) position and a second position in which the cam driver 2228 pushes on the cam 2226 to hold the valve 2214 in the second (i.e., closed) position. The cam driver 2228 may be pivotally, slidably, rotationally, or otherwise movably mounted to the valve assembly 2224. In this case, the cam driver 2228 is pivotally mounted to the valve assembly 2224. A return spring (not shown) may be provided to bias the cam driver 2228 to the first position, or such return movement may be provided by the biasing force of the spring 2218 acting on the cam 2226. Any suitable seal may be used to prevent leakage of flowing material around the components of the trigger assembly.

[0164] Fig.22A and 22B The applicator 2200 is expected to be particularly useful for providing one-handed operation of the applicator 2200. For example, the trigger assembly 2224 can be configured as a small rigid housing that an operator can actuate to wet the core 2212 with the flowable material, then manipulate the tube 2222 to guide the core 2212 to the desired treatment location, and then operate the valve 2214 to dispense more flowable material as needed. The housing 2202 can then be attached to a nearby structure (e.g., a scaffold or ladder), or to a carrier or operator's body (e.g., via a wrist cuff, etc.), preferably to facilitate gravity feeding of the flowable material. If desired, a second valve can be provided on the housing 2202 to provide a flow cutoff at the housing 2202.

[0165] You will also understand that Fig.22A and 22B The side-operated trigger shown in the figure can be replaced by other trigger mechanisms to operate the valve 2214. For example, the valve assembly 2224 can be configured with a pistol grip and a trigger. In view of this disclosure, other alternatives and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0166] Fig.23Another embodiment of an applicator 2300 is shown, which is intended to treat surfaces that are remote or relatively difficult to reach. Here, the applicator 2300 has a housing 2302 extending from a proximal end 2304 to a distal end 2306, with a chamber 2308 for accommodating a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 2302. An outlet 2310 connects the chamber 2308 to an external environment. A flexible cavity 2322 extends from the outlet 2310 to a valve assembly 2324. A core 2312 protrudes from the valve assembly 2324. The valve assembly 2324 is configured to selectively prevent the flowable material from flowing from the cavity 2322 to the core 2312. In this case, the valve assembly 2324 includes a piston 2326 that slides in a cylinder 2328. The piston 2326 is sealed against the cylinder 2328 by a perimeter seal (not shown) and has one or more one-way valves 2330 that allow flowable material to flow from the cavity 2322 to the core 2312, but prevent flowable material from flowing in the other direction. A spring 2318 is located in the cylinder 2328 and is configured to bias the piston 2326 away from the core 2312. The check valve 2332 connects the lumen 2322 to the cylinder 2328 and is configured to allow flowable material to pass from the lumen 2322 to the cylinder 2328, but prevent flow in the opposite direction.

[0167] The trigger assembly 2324 also includes a push rod 2334 extending from the piston 2326 to the plunger 2336, which is located in a position accessible to the operator. One or more triggers 2338 may be located on the trigger assembly 2324 adjacent to the plunger 2336. The piston 2326 is operated by holding the plunger 2336 and the trigger 2338 in one hand and squeezing them together to overcome the bias of the spring 2318. This moves the piston 2326 toward the core 2312 while the one-way valve 2330 remains closed, thereby forcing the flowable material to move toward the core 2312. When the plunger 2336 and the trigger 2338 are released, the spring 2318 moves the piston 2326 away from the core 2312, and the one-way valve 2330 opens to allow the flowable material to pass therethrough. During the return stroke, the check valve 2332 is closed to prevent the flowable material from flowing out of the cylinder 2328 and into the lumen 2322.

[0168] Using such a trigger 2324 at the end of lumen 2322 can provide the advantage of controlling the flow of flowable material while minimizing the amount of flowable material retained between the valve and core 2312. This reduces the amount of flowable material that can potentially escape from the applicator 2300 when the applicator is not in use.

[0169] If desired, the trigger assembly 2324 can include or be configured as an extension rod 2340 that provides remote operation and control of the core 2312. For example, in Fig.23 In an embodiment of the present invention, the operator can retain the plunger 2336 and the trigger 2338 and use these to maneuver the core 2312 into narrow spaces and under overhanging features.

[0170] Fig.24 Another embodiment of an applicator 2400 is shown, which is intended to treat remote or relatively difficult to reach surfaces. Here, the applicator 2400 has a housing 2402 extending from a proximal end 2404 to a distal end 2406, with a chamber 2408 for containing a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 2402. An outlet 2410 connects the chamber 2408 to the external environment. A flexible lumen 2422 extends from the outlet 2410 to a valve assembly 2424. A core 2412 protrudes from the valve assembly 2424. The valve assembly 2424 is configured to selectively prevent the flowable material from flowing from the chamber 2422 to the core 2412. In this case, the valve assembly 2424 includes a flexible chamber 2426 located between an upstream check valve 2428 and a downstream check valve 2430. An operator can squeeze the chamber to force its contents through the downstream check valve 2430 and reach the core 2412. During this squeezing process, the upstream check valve 2428 prevents the flowable material from returning to the flexible tubular lumen 2422. When the chamber 2426 is released, it returns to its original shape and is refilled by pulling the flowable material through the upstream check valve 2428. The check valves 2428, 2430 may include any suitable one-way valves. The downstream check valve 2430 preferably includes a one-way valve that is normally biased to a closed position by a spring 2432 or the like to prevent it from leaking fluid when no squeezing pressure is applied to the chamber 2426. The chamber 2426 shown includes a bulb-shaped chamber that is flexible around its entire perimeter. An alternative chamber 2426 may be only partially flexible, such as in combination with a Fig.14 Describe the chamber.

[0171] For example, as shown in Figures 22a to 24, the use of a valve at the end of the flexible lumen is expected to provide the benefits of controlling the flow of the flowable material while minimizing the amount of flowable material retained between the valve and the core. This reduces the amount of flowable material that may escape from the applicator when not in use. However, in each case, the applicator can be modified to include a valve in the housing, such as Figure 20-21B As shown, to provide a redundant flow control mechanism. It will also be understood that Figures 22A to 24 The valve mechanism shown can be used in embodiments that do not have a flexible lumen. For example, Fig.24 The bulb cavity 2426 and associated valve can be mounted directly to the proximal end of the housing without an intermediate flexible lumen.

[0172] Fig.25Another embodiment of an applicator 2500 configured for use in a confined space is shown. The applicator 2500 has a housing 2502 extending from a proximal end 2504 to a distal end 2506, and a chamber 2508 for holding a flowable material. A collar (not shown) or other features may also be provided on the housing 2502. An outlet 2510 connects the chamber 2508 to the external environment. A core 2512 is located in and protrudes from the outlet 2510. A valve 2514 is operably connected to the distal end of the core 2512 directly or through an intermediate portion to move with the core 2512. The core 2512 can slide between an extended position and a retracted position within the outlet 2510. When the core 2512 is in the extended position, the valve 2514 abuts and seals against a corresponding first wall 2516 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 2508 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 2500) to prevent the flowable material from the chamber 2508 from passing to the core 2512. When the core 2512 is in the retracted position, the valve 2514 disengages from the first wall 2516 and allows the flowable material from the chamber 2508 to pass to the core 2512. The spring 2518 is located between the valve 2514 and the second wall 2520 (e.g., a wall of the chamber 2508 or a surface of a valve subassembly mounted in the applicator 2500). The spring 2518 is compressed to generate a resilient biasing force that presses on the valve 2514 to bias the core 2512 to the extended position.

[0173] In this example, the discharge housing 2502 includes a flexible section 2522 located between the distal end 2506 of the housing 2502 and the proximal end 2504 of the housing 2502. The flexible section 2522 includes an area in which the housing 2502 is sufficiently flexible to allow the proximal end 2504 and therefore the core 2512 to be reoriented relative to the distal end 2506. The flexible section 2522 may include, for example, a bellows-shaped barrel portion of the housing 2502 located between the valve 2514 and the distal end 2506. In this case, the core 2512 and the valve 2514 may be reoriented by bending the bellows. The bellows may include an integrally formed portion of the housing 2502, and it may have a reduced wall thickness for ease of bending. Alternatively, the bellows or other flexible section 2522 may include a separate portion attached to the rest of the housing, such as a flexible guide. In view of this disclosure, other alternatives and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0174] It will be appreciated that all or none of the above described embodiments may be used with smaller sized cores and that this feature is not specifically required for any embodiment.

[0175] It will also be understood that the features described herein are shown in exemplary schematic configurations, and embodiments may include more sophisticated mechanisms or mechanisms with different shapes and sizes. For example, the valve mechanisms shown here are generally shown in schematic form, but they can be replaced by any suitable corresponding mechanism or assembly with any number of operating components. Non-limiting examples of alternative valve mechanisms are described in U.S. Patents Nos. 5,702,759; 4,848,947; 4,685,820 and 4,792,252, which are incorporated herein by reference. As another example, various fasteners or connecting components may be provided to connect these components to each other. For example, a retaining clip, pin, adhesive or the like may be provided to hold the valve on the core when the components are required to move in unison, and the core or other moving components may have other features to prevent extension or contraction beyond the desired travel limit. As another example, the springs discussed in various embodiments may include any suitable springs, exemplary options being: non-tapered and tapered coil springs, Beville washer-type springs, cantilever leaf springs, elastic blocks, etc. The springs may also be installed to act in compression or tension. Other alternatives and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure.

[0176] The present disclosure describes many inventive features and / or combinations of features that can be used alone or in combination with each other or in combination with other technologies. The embodiments described herein are exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. It will also be understood that the invention described herein can be modified and adapted in various ways, and all such modifications and adaptations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An applicator for hazardous materials, comprising: a housing (302, 402, 502, 602, 702, 802, 902, 1002, 1102, 1902) having a chamber (308, 408, 508, 608, 708, 808, 1008, 1108), an exhaust port (310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 1010, 1110), and a valve (314, 414, 514, 614, 714, 814, 1014, 1114) that moves between a closed position in which the exhaust port is not in fluid communication with the chamber and an open position in which the exhaust port is in fluid communication with the chamber, and a valve spring (318, 418, 518, 618, 718, 818, 1018, 1118) configured to bias the valve toward the closed position; and a core (312, 412, 512, 612, 712, 812, 912, 1012, 1112, 1912) movably connected to the housing and configured to transmit an axial load to the valve to move the valve from a closed position to an open position, the core comprising a material adapted to receive fluid from the exhaust port and transmit the fluid to a location external to the housing; Wherein, the applicator is characterized by: a device (322, 422, 522, 622, 722, 824, 922, 1021, 1124, 1922, 1930) for supporting and / or increasing the rigidity of the core, comprising: (1) an inner support member (422, 1124) at least partially surrounded by the core and / or (2) a central support portion (722) of the core and a flexible outer layer (724) attached thereto; wherein (1) the inner support member (422, 1124) at least partially surrounded by the core and (2) the central support portion (722) of the core and the flexible outer layer (724) attached thereto are movable with the core relative to the shell; Optionally, a tube (322, 522, 622, 824, 922, 1021, 1922) surrounds at least a portion of the core to increase the stiffness of the core, the tube having (i) one or more lateral openings (324, 530, 626, 924) extending through a wall of the tube and positioned outside the housing and / or (ii) a core spring (526) operably positioned between the core and the tube to enable the core to move relative to the tube between an extended position and a retracted position so that the core spring is configured to bias the core to the extended position.

2. The applicator according to claim 1, wherein: The housing includes a hazardous fluid.

3. The applicator according to claim 2, wherein: The hazardous fluid is a conversion coating material, a cleaning agent, an adhesion promoter, or a metal pretreatment material.

4. The applicator of claim 2, wherein: The hazardous fluid has a pH value of 1 to 5.

5. The applicator of claim 3, wherein: The hazardous fluid is a conversion coating material.

6. An applicator according to claim 2 or 3 or 4 or 5, wherein: The core spring has a lower spring constant than the valve spring.

7. An applicator according to claim 2 or 3 or 4 or 5, wherein: The tube includes a trigger (624) located outside the housing, and the trigger is configured to be operated to move the valve from the closed position to the open position.

8. An applicator according to claim 7, wherein: The housing also includes a gripping surface (628) spaced from the trigger and configured to be retained to hold the housing against a force applied to the trigger.

9. An applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The core comprises one selected from different cores (812', 812", 812'", 812", 812'"", 812'""') that are interchangeably connected to the tube.

10. The applicator of claim 1, wherein: The core and preferably the internal support are bent at a non-zero angle relative to the discharge opening.

11. An applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The housing includes a tip portion (1004) and a handle portion (1006), and the tip portion is movable relative to the handle portion.

12. The applicator of claim 11, wherein: The tip portion is connected to the handle portion via a swivel connection (1022).

13. The applicator of claim 1, wherein: Means for supporting and / or increasing the stiffness of a core include inner fiber bundles forming a first portion of the core, the first portion comprising a central support portion (722) of the core, the first portion being stiffer than a second portion of the core including a flexible outer layer (724).

14. An applicator according to claim 13, wherein: The outer layer comprises a covering or coating of material or fibers that has been chemically and / or mechanically treated to reduce its stiffness.

15. The applicator of claim 1, wherein: The inner support (422, 1124) at least partially surrounded by the core is hollow and includes an open space or core material therein.

16. An applicator according to claim 15, wherein: The inner support (422, 1124) has lateral openings to provide additional lateral flow paths for the flowable material.

17. An applicator according to claim 13, 14, 15 or 16, wherein: An inner support (422, 1124) at least partially surrounded by the core extends to terminate at or near the proximal end of the core.

18. An applicator according to claim 13, 14, 15, 16 or 17, wherein: The pliable outer layer comprises a soft, porous and / or fibrous material suitable for distributing the flowable material in a transverse direction so as to coat the inner wall.

19. An applicator according to claim 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 or 18, wherein: The soft outer layer has a diameter D1 that is greater than a diameter D2 of an adjacent portion of the central support portion of the core, and optionally, the soft outer layer has a diameter D3 that is greater than a proximal end of the shell.

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