System and apparatus for dispensing precise doses of fluid

Abstract

The invention discloses a fluid dispenser, comprising: a housing; a cartridge enclosing the fluid; the roller comprises a first part, a second part and roller internal teeth, the first part is arranged in the shell, and the second part partially protrudes from the shell; the first gear comprises first gear outer teeth, the first gear is arranged in the interior of the shell, and the first gear outer teeth are in mechanical communication with the roller inner teeth; a plunger comprising plunger outer teeth in mechanical communication with the first gear outer teeth, the plunger being in fluid communication with the cartridge, the plunger further comprising a plunger slot, with the roller traversing the plunger slot, with the plunger being configured to move within the housing and the cartridge, with the plunger being configured to compress a fluid, wherein compression of the fluid is configured to drive the fluid from a cartridge release disposed at the top of the cartridge.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a system and apparatus for dispensing fluids. In particular, this disclosure relates to a system and apparatus for dispensing precise doses of fluid. Background Technology

[0002] Fluid dispensers, an indispensable cornerstone of modern medical practice, play a crucial role in the precise management of fluids—a key aspect of the medical field. Dosing accuracy is paramount for patient care, ensuring that individuals receive the precise and necessary amount of fluid. Traditionally, healthcare providers and patients have turned to tested and reliable syringes for the accurate delivery of fluids and liquid medications. Despite their precision, syringes often evoke feelings of fear and reluctance among patients.

[0003] In response to concerns associated with syringes, a wave of innovative solutions has emerged, aiming to provide patients with more patient-friendly methods of fluid dispensing. However, while these alternatives are well-intentioned, they come with their own unique set of challenges. Some prove cumbersome, introducing complexity into the fluid dispensing process. Meanwhile, others struggle to provide seamless ease of one-handed operation. To illustrate, individuals struggling with hand pain or arthritis have found themselves unable to use existing fluid dispensers with one hand, exhibiting significant barriers to use.

[0004] The ongoing pursuit of user-friendly and efficient alternatives to traditional syringes is driven by the need to improve the patient experience in the field of medical fluid delivery. A fundamental consideration in this exploration revolves around economical use, especially for patients experiencing pain. Therefore, fluid dispensers designed for single-handed use hold significant promise. Furthermore, there is a desire to extend beyond mere functionality; the expectation is to introduce fluid dispensers that not only meet the ergonomic needs of medical patients but also avoid the stigma typically associated with conventional medical syringes.

[0005] Furthermore, many conventional fluid dispensing devices suffer from inaccurate dosing or product waste due to the tendency for fluid to "leak" or overflow in excess of the desired amount. For example, many manually actuated devices can expel more fluid than expected, depending on the fluid's momentum. In such conventional fluid dispensing devices, manual actuation (e.g., compression of a syringe plunger) can cause fluid to leave the outlet even after manual actuation has ceased, depending on the fluid's momentum.

[0006] Even more ideally, the envisioned product should transcend conventional expectations and seamlessly integrate into the daily lives of healthcare patients. It should not only be adaptable to single-handed operation but also help eliminate biases regarding the fluid dispensing process. This pursuit culminates in groundbreaking product conceptualizations that have the potential to revolutionize fluid delivery. This article presents the public offering of such an innovative solution, demonstrating the convergence of a single, transformable fluid dispenser toward a future of patient centrality and ease of use. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This summary is provided to introduce, in a simplified form, a series of concepts that will be further described in the detailed description below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claims included herein.

[0008] A fluid dispenser may be provided, comprising: a housing; a cartridge containing a closed fluid; a roller including: a first portion disposed within the interior of the housing, a second portion partially projecting from the housing, and internal roller teeth; a first gear including external first gear teeth disposed within the interior of the housing, the external first gear teeth being mechanically connected to the internal roller teeth; a plunger including external plunger teeth mechanically connected to the external first gear teeth, the plunger being in fluid communication with the cartridge, the plunger further including a plunger slot, wherein the roller passes through the plunger slot, wherein the plunger is configured to move within the housing and the cartridge, wherein the plunger is configured to compress the fluid, wherein the compression of the fluid is configured to drive the fluid from a cartridge release portion disposed at the top of the cartridge.

[0009] In one embodiment, the housing further includes a first housing member having a first recess and a second housing member having a second recess, the first recess and the second recess forming a housing opening.

[0010] In a further embodiment, the fluid distributor further includes a lock disposed on the housing, the lock being in fluid communication with the interior of the housing.

[0011] In yet another embodiment, the fluid dispenser further includes a dispenser cap that is reversibly coupled to the housing, such that the fluid dispenser can be in at least one of an open configuration and a closed configuration.

[0012] In another embodiment, the roller generates feedback stimulation with rotational motion in predetermined increments. Further, the roller compresses a predetermined volume of fluid with rotational motion in predetermined increments. Moreover, the predetermined increment is 60 degrees. Additionally, the predetermined volume is 0.05 mL.

[0013] In another embodiment, the rotational motion of the roller is converted into the rotational motion of the first gear, which is then converted into the linear motion of the plunger, and the linear motion of the plunger compresses a predetermined volume of fluid.

[0014] A fluid dispenser may be provided, comprising: a housing; a cartridge containing a closed fluid; a roller including: a first portion disposed within the housing, a second portion partially projecting from the housing, internal roller teeth, and external roller teeth; a first gear including external first gear teeth disposed within the housing, the external first gear teeth being mechanically connected to the internal roller teeth; a second gear including a first set of second gear teeth and a second set of second gear teeth disposed within the housing, the first set of second gear teeth being mechanically connected to the external first gear teeth; a plunger including external plunger teeth mechanically connected to the second set of second gear teeth, the plunger being in fluid communication with the cartridge, the plunger further including a plunger slot, wherein the roller passes through the plunger slot, wherein the plunger is configured to move within the housing and the cartridge, wherein the plunger is configured to compress the fluid, wherein the compression of the fluid is configured to drive the fluid from a cartridge release portion disposed at the top of the cartridge.

[0015] In one embodiment, the second gear is a two-stage gear. Additionally, the fluid distributor further includes rollers disposed adjacent to the plunger. Furthermore, the fluid distributor further includes a slotted guide disposed within the lower portion of the plunger. Furthermore, the fluid distributor further includes a column captured by the slotted guide.

[0016] A fluid dispenser is provided, comprising: a housing; a cartridge containing a closed fluid; a roller including: a wheel base and at least one gear, the wheel base including: a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being disposed inside the housing and the second portion partially protruding from the housing, the at least one gear being disposed on the wheel base; one or more plunger gears mechanically communicating with the at least one gear; and a plunger mechanically communicating with the one or more plunger gears, wherein the plunger is configured to move within the housing and the cartridge, wherein the plunger is configured to compress the fluid, and wherein the compression of the fluid is configured to drive the fluid from a cartridge release portion disposed at the top of the cartridge.

[0017] In another embodiment, at least one gear further includes a first gear disposed on a first side of the gear base and a second gear disposed on a second side of the gear base.

[0018] In an embodiment, one or more plunger gears further include a first plunger gear, the first plunger gear including: a first master gear mechanically connected to a first gear and a first gear disposed on the first master gear; and a second plunger gear, the second plunger gear including: a second master gear mechanically connected to a second gear and a second gear disposed on the second master gear.

[0019] In a further embodiment, the plunger further includes a plurality of plunger teeth arranged in a gear slot, the plurality of plunger teeth being mechanically connected to at least one of a first gear and a second gear; and a plunger end disposed on a distal end of the plunger, the plunger end being configured to compress fluid, the plunger end being prevented from entering the interior of the housing.

[0020] In yet another embodiment, the rotational motion of the roller is converted into the rotational motion of the first gear and the second gear, the rotational motion of the first gear and the second gear is converted into the rotational motion of the first main gear, the first gear, the second main gear and the second gear, the rotational motion of the first main gear, the first gear, the second main gear and the second gear is converted into the linear motion of the plunger end, and the linear motion of the plunger end compresses a predetermined volume of fluid. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Aspects of this disclosure are illustrated by way of the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, and the principles of this disclosure are explained and illustrated together with the specification.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a device for dispensing precise doses of fluid.

[0023] Figure 2 This is an interior view of an embodiment of a device for dispensing precise doses of fluid.

[0024] Figure 3 This is an illustration of an embodiment of a gear mechanism for dispensing a precise dose of fluid.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a gear mechanism for dispensing a precise dose of fluid in a discharged state.

[0026] Figure 5 This is an illustration of an embodiment of a gear mechanism for dispensing a precise dose of fluid in a discharged state.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a gear mechanism for dispensing a precise dose of fluid in a non-discharged state.

[0028] Figure 7This is an illustration of an embodiment of a gear mechanism for dispensing a precise dose of fluid in a non-discharged state.

[0029] Figure 8 This is an illustration of an embodiment of one or more plunger gears.

[0030] Figure 9 This is an illustration of an embodiment on the first roller side.

[0031] Figure 10 This is an illustration of an embodiment on the second roller side.

[0032] Figure 11 This is an illustration of an embodiment of the plunger.

[0033] Figure 12 This is an illustration of an embodiment of a device for dispensing precise doses of fluid.

[0034] Figure 13 This is an illustration of an embodiment of a cross-sectional view of a cartridge. Detailed Implementation

[0035] In the following detailed description, reference will be made to the accompanying drawings, in which like functional elements are designated by the same reference numerals. The foregoing drawings illustrate, by way of illustration and not limitation, specific aspects and implementations consistent with the principles of this disclosure. These implementations are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice this disclosure, and it should be understood that other implementations may be utilized, and structural changes and / or substitutions of different elements may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Therefore, the following detailed description should not be construed as limiting.

[0036] It should be noted that the descriptions in this article are not intended as a broad overview, and therefore, concepts may be simplified for clarity and brevity.

[0037] All documents mentioned in this application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Any process described in this application may be performed in any order, and any step in the process may be omitted. A process may also be combined with other processes or steps of other processes.

[0038] from Figure 1 and Figure 2Initially, a system and device (hereinafter referred to as a "fluid dispenser") 100 for dispensing precise doses of fluid may include at least a housing 110 and a dispenser cap 120. In embodiments, the dispenser cap 120 may be reversibly coupled to the housing 110 such that the fluid dispenser 100 can be in at least one of an open configuration and a closed configuration. The fluid dispenser 100 in the closed configuration may be child-proof or child-safe, making it difficult or impossible for children below a certain age to transfer the fluid dispenser 100 from the closed configuration to the open configuration. As a non-limiting example, a user may apply force to the dispenser cap 120 when the fluid dispenser 100 is in the closed configuration, wherein the force is capable of removing the cap 120 from the housing 110, thus transferring the fluid dispenser from the closed configuration to the open configuration. The fluid dispenser 100 may be constructed of one or more materials. In embodiments, the fluid dispenser 100 is constructed of polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE) and / or borosilicate glass. Furthermore, the fluid dispenser 100 may be configured to be handled and / or manipulated by a user. In one embodiment, the user can utilize and manipulate the fluid dispenser 100 with one hand. In one embodiment, the dispenser cap 120 can be reversibly attached to the housing 110 via a fastening device that requires both hands to be apart, while the operation of the roller 130 can be performed with one hand. In such an embodiment, the child-proof nature of the dispenser cap 120 prevents access to the end of the cylinder 180, and once the child-proof feature of the dispenser cap 120 has been overcome, fluid can be dispensed via the roller 130 using a single hand (e.g., the user's thumb).

[0039] The housing 110 may include at least a first housing member 210 and a second housing member 220, wherein the first housing member 210 is coupled (e.g., reversibly coupled) to the second housing member 220, or vice versa. In an alternative embodiment, the first housing member 210 and the second housing member 220 may be decoupled for reloading fluid into the device. For example, in cases where the fluid dispenser 100 is disposable or single-use, the first housing member 210 and the second housing member 220 may be configured such that separation of such components is not operable by a standard user. Thus, in this case, the first housing member 210 and the second housing member 220 may be permanently adhered to each other (e.g., via commercial adhesives or another permanent fastening device).

[0040] The housing 110 can be in at least one of an open configuration and a closed configuration. As a non-limiting example, Figure 1 The housing 110 is depicted in a closed configuration, and Figure 2A housing 110 in an open configuration is depicted. Further, the first housing member 210 and the second housing member 220 may include a first recess 250 and / or a second recess 260. In a further embodiment, the first housing member 210 may include the first recess 250, and the second housing member 220 may include the second recess 260, and vice versa. In yet another embodiment, when the housing 110 is in a closed configuration, the first recess 250 and the second recess 260 may form a housing aperture 135 (e.g., configured to partially receive a roller 130, as described below). In such an embodiment, the interior of the housing 110 may be in fluid communication with the external environment via the housing aperture 135.

[0041] The fluid distributor 100 may further include a roller 130, a first gear 140, and / or a plunger 160, wherein the first gear 140 may include a first gear orifice 150. In an embodiment, the roller 130, the first gear 140, and / or the plunger 160 may be arranged inside the housing 110. In such a further embodiment, when the housing 110 is in a closed configuration, at least one of the roller 130, the first gear 140, and the plunger 160 may be enclosed within the housing 110. In an embodiment, when the housing 110 is in an open configuration, the roller 130, the first gear 140, and / or the plunger 160 may be exposed to the external environment. In an alternative embodiment, a first portion of at least one of the roller 130, the first gear 140, and the plunger 160 may be exposed to the external environment, while a second portion of at least one of the roller 130, the first gear 140, and the plunger 160 may be enclosed within the housing 110. In this embodiment, the roller 130, the first gear 140, and / or the plunger 160 may traverse the housing aperture 135, thereby exposing the first portion and allowing the second portion to be closed. As a non-limiting example, the first portion of the roller 130, the first gear 140, and the plunger 160 may be enclosed within the housing 110, while the second portion of the roller 130 traverses the housing aperture 135 and is thus exposed to the external environment. In this non-limiting example, no more than 10% of the area of ​​the second portion of the roller 130 may traverse the housing aperture 135. In another non-limiting example, no more than 20% of the area of ​​the second portion of the roller 130 may traverse the housing aperture 135. In yet another non-limiting example, no more than 30% of the area of ​​the second portion of the roller 130 may traverse the housing aperture 135.

[0042] Further, the roller 130 may include a plurality of teeth, wherein the teeth may be arranged on at least one of the inner and outer surfaces of the roller 130. In an embodiment, the first gear 140 may include a plurality of teeth, wherein the teeth may be arranged on the inner and / or outer surfaces of the first gear 140. In another embodiment, the plunger 160 may include a plurality of teeth, wherein the teeth are arranged on the outer surface of the plunger 160. Thus, as Figure 2 As shown, the fluid distributor 100 may include roller external teeth, roller internal teeth, first gear external teeth, and plunger external teeth.

[0043] In one embodiment, roller 130 may be mechanically connected to first gear 140 and / or plunger 160. Therefore, a plurality of teeth of roller 130 (e.g., internal teeth) may be mechanically connected to a plurality of teeth of at least one first gear 140 (e.g., external teeth), and thus can indirectly drive plunger 160, for example, via external plunger teeth. In another embodiment, first gear 140 may be mechanically connected to roller 130 and / or plunger 160. In such an embodiment, a first large external tooth of first gear 140 may be mechanically connected to internal teeth of roller 130 and / or external teeth of plunger 160. In a further embodiment, plunger 160 may include roller slot 270. In yet another embodiment, roller 130 may be arranged within roller slot 270 such that roller 130 can extend through plunger 160. Furthermore, first gear 140 may be arranged between the inner surface of roller 130 and plunger 160. In such an embodiment, the roller 130 can be arranged within the roller groove 270.

[0044] Furthermore, the motion of the roller 130 can be converted into the motion of the first gear 140 and / or the plunger 160. In an embodiment, the rotational motion of the roller 130 can be converted into the rotational motion of the first gear 140. In such an embodiment, the rotational motion of the roller 130 can be user-actuated. The rotational motion of the first gear 140 can be converted into the motion of the plunger 160. In such an embodiment, the motion of the plunger 160 can be linear. As a non-limiting example, the roller 130, traversing both the housing aperture 135 and the plunger 160, can be rotated via user actuation of at least one of a first portion and a second portion of the roller 130. In some cases, the “second portion” of a component can be defined as the portion of the component extending outward from the housing aperture 135. In this non-limiting example, the rotational motion of the roller 130 is converted into the rotational motion of the first gear 140, which is arranged between the inner surface of the roller 130 and the plunger 160. In a continuation of the above example, the rotational motion of the first gear 140 can be converted into the linear motion of the plunger 160. As another non-limiting example, the first gear 140 and the plunger 160 can function as a rack and pinion system, where the first gear 140 is a pinion and the plunger 160 is a rack. In this example, by actuating at least one of the first and second portions of the roller 130 by a user, the rotational motion of the roller 130 is converted into the rotational motion of the first gear 140, which acts as a pinion, and this rotational motion is further converted into the linear motion of the plunger 160, which acts as a rack. Furthermore, the use of three gear components (e.g., the roller 130, the first gear 140, and the plunger 160) allows fluid to be discharged forward based on the forward rotation of the roller 130 from the user's perspective. Similarly, from the user's perspective, the backward rotation of roller 130 can cause fluid to be drawn back into the device.

[0045] Furthermore, the user-actuated roller 130 can generate a user feedback stimulus for each predetermined increment of movement of the roller 130. In an embodiment, the feedback stimulus can be at least one of auditory, tactile, and visual stimuli. In an embodiment, the user feedback stimulus can be a combination of two or more of auditory, tactile, and / or visual stimuli. As a non-limiting example, the user feedback stimulus can be an auditory and / or tactile "click," thus notifying the user that the roller 130 has moved a predetermined increment. Furthermore, a predetermined increment can be equal to the distance the roller 130 has moved. In an embodiment, the user-actuated roller 130 can generate a user feedback stimulus for every 60 degrees of rotational movement of the roller 130. However, for any rotational movement of the roller between 1 and 360 degrees, a user feedback stimulus can occur. However, in cases where the desired discrete fluid volume translates into more than a full rotation of the roller 130, the roller 130 can provide user feedback stimuli in increments exceeding 360 degrees. In an embodiment, the feedback stimulus of the roller 130 is associated with a non-arbitrary predetermined fluid volume. For example, roller 130 can be sized and configured such that a certain number of increments of feedback stimulus release a desired, non-arbitrary predetermined volume of fluid. Thus, the feedback stimulus can inform the user about the volume of fluid being discharged. Therefore, such feedback stimulus allows the user to exclusively give (or otherwise release) a desired volume of fluid based on that feedback stimulus.

[0046] The fluid dispenser 100 may further include a roller housing 230 and a gear pin 240. In one embodiment, the roller housing 230 and / or the gear pin 240 may be disposed on the inner surface of at least one of the first housing member 210 and the second housing member 220. In another embodiment, the roller housing 230 may serve as a support for the roller 130. In such an embodiment, the roller housing 230 may allow the roller 130 to move about a defined position, thus ensuring that the roller 130 does not move away from the defined position during user actuation. Furthermore, the roller housing 230 may include a gap section that allows the roller housing 230 to at least partially surround the roller 130 while also accommodating the space occupied by the plunger 160. In a further embodiment, the gear pin 240 may serve as a support for the first gear 140. In yet another further embodiment, the gear pin 240 may be configured to traverse at least one of the first gear 140 and the first gear orifice 150. In such an embodiment, the gear pin 240 allows the first gear 140 to rotate about a defined position, thus ensuring that the first gear 140 does not move away from the defined position during user actuation of the roller 130.

[0047] The fluid dispenser 100 may further include a lock 190. In one embodiment, the lock 190 may be disposed on at least one of a first housing member 210 and a second housing member 220. In such an embodiment, the dispenser cap 120 may be configured to cover the lock 190 in a closed configuration. In another embodiment, a plunger 160 may be in fluid communication with the lock 190, such that the plunger 160 may extend through the lock 190. In this embodiment, movement of the plunger 160 may allow the plunger 160 to move from the interior of the housing 110 to the external environment. In a non-limiting example, the plunger 160 may move from the interior of the housing 110 to the external environment via linear movement by extending through the lock 190. In some embodiments, the plunger 160 may be able to extend at least partially above the lock 190, wherein actuation of the roller 130 may allow the plunger to move vertically relative to the lock 190. The lock 190 may be configured to engage with the cap 120, thereby allowing the cap 120 and the lock 190 to form a child-proof coupling.

[0048] The fluid dispenser 100 may further include a cartridge 170, wherein the cartridge 170 may be coupled to a cartridge end 180. The cartridge end may have a diameter between 1 mm and 5 mm. Additionally, the cartridge 170 may be made of glass and may contain a fluid. In embodiments, the fluid may be any suitable fluid known to those skilled in the art (e.g., oil, honey, soap, water, etc.). Further, the cartridge 170 may be in fluid communication with the cartridge end 180, allowing fluid to be transferred from the cartridge 170 through the cartridge end 180 to the external environment. In another embodiment, the cartridge 170 may be reversibly coupled to a lock 190, such that the cartridge 170 may be in at least one of a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. In such an embodiment, a user may apply force to the cartridge 170 and / or the lock 190 to transpose the cartridge 170 from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration, or vice versa. In embodiments, this force may be a user-actuated rotational movement of the cartridge 170 and / or the lock 190. Alternatively, the cartridge 170 may be permanently attached to the lock 190. In such an embodiment, the dispenser cap 120 may be configured to cover the cartridge 170 and / or the lock 190 in a closed configuration. The dispenser cap 120 may include geometry complementary to the lock 190, such that manipulation of the dispenser cap 120 causes the dispenser cap 120 to unlock from the lock 190.

[0049] The cartridge 170 may further include a cartridge opening (not shown) that, in a locked configuration, allows fluid communication between the cartridge 170 and the lock 190. In such an embodiment, a plunger 160 may be in fluid communication with the cartridge 170. As a non-limiting example, movement of the plunger 160 may force fluid enclosed by the cartridge 170 through the cartridge end 180 to the external environment. As another non-limiting example, movement of the plunger 160 may prevent fluid from leaving the cartridge and entering the external environment. For example, a brake roller 130 may prevent movement of the plunger 160 and can therefore be used by a user to stop the flow of fluid from the cartridge end 180. This braking method can be used even when fluid flow is involuntary, for example, when fluid leaving the dispenser 100 is due to the inertial movement of the fluid. In a further embodiment, the cartridge opening may have a diameter between 10 mm and 20 mm. In yet another further embodiment, the cartridge 170 may have a length between 10 mm and 30 mm. Furthermore, the cartridge can have a volume between 0.5 mL and 1.5 mL. However, the cartridge 170 can have any suitable opening area, length, or volume.

[0050] Furthermore, a predetermined increment of movement of roller 130 can dispense a predetermined volume of fluid. In one embodiment, a predetermined increment of movement of roller 130 can dispense 0.05 mL of fluid. However, any suitable volume of fluid between 0.01 mL and 0.1 mL can be dispensed for each predetermined increment of movement of roller 130. As a non-limiting example, user actuation of roller 130 (producing a predetermined increment of movement of roller 130) can produce a linear movement of plunger 160, thereby dispensing a predetermined volume of fluid. In a further embodiment, user counterclockwise actuation of roller 130 can result in at least one of fluid being dispensed and fluid being retained. In yet another further embodiment, user clockwise actuation of roller 130 can result in at least one of fluid being dispensed and fluid being retained.

[0051] refer to Figure 3The fluid distributor 100 may further include a second gear 310. Furthermore, the second gear may be mechanically communicated with at least one of the roller 130, the first gear 140, and the plunger 160. In an embodiment, the second gear 310 includes a plurality of teeth arranged on its outer surface. In such an embodiment, the plurality of teeth of the second gear 310 may be mechanically connected to a plurality of teeth of at least one of the roller 130, the first gear 140, and the plunger 160. The second gear 310 may be arranged between the inner surface of the roller 130 and the plunger 160. As a non-limiting example, the first gear 140 and the second gear 310 are arranged on the inner surface of the roller 130. In such a non-limiting example, motion of the roller 130 is converted into motion of the first gear 140, which in turn is converted into motion of the second gear carrier 310, resulting in motion of the plunger 160. In an embodiment, the motion of the second gear is rotational. In another embodiment, the second gear 310 may be a two-stage gear. As a non-limiting example, the second gear 310 and the plunger 160 can function as a rack and pinion system, wherein the second gear 310 is a pinion and the plunger 160 is a rack. In such an example, the rotational motion of the roller 130, via user actuation of at least one of the first and second portions of the roller 130, is converted into the rotational motion of the first gear 140, which is then converted into the rotational motion of the second gear 310, which acts as a pinion, and further converted into the linear motion of the plunger 160, which acts as a rack, wherein the linear motion of the plunger 160 causes fluid to be distributed to the external environment.

[0052] The second gear 310 can increase the gear ratio. In an embodiment, increasing the gear ratio can increase the user's leverage, thereby allowing the user to more easily actuate the roller 130 and / or more easily dispense a fixed volume of fluid. As a non-limiting example, the user can actuate the roller 130, causing it to rotate by 60 degrees. This rotational movement of the roller 130 causes rotation of the first gear 140, which is then converted into rotation of the second gear 310. This rotational movement of the second gear 310 is converted into linear movement of the plunger 160, which in turn results in 0.05 mL of fluid being dispensed into the external environment.

[0053] In one embodiment, the second gear 310 may include a first set of second gear teeth and a second set of second gear teeth. In another embodiment, the external teeth of the first gear may engage with the first set of second gear teeth, thereby causing the entire second gear 310 to rotate (e.g., including the second set of gear teeth), further causing the plunger 160 to be driven. The first set of second gear teeth may have a larger diameter than the second set of second gear teeth.

[0054] In one embodiment, the housing 110 may include rollers 320 arranged adjacent to the plunger 160 and opposite to the direction of rotation to ensure that the plunger 160 does not bend during its movement. Rollers 320 may be cylindrical members and may be configured to rotate freely about an axis. Therefore, the plunger 160 can travel along rollers 320, thereby mitigating undesirable deflection in the plunger without inhibiting the desired movement of the plunger 160.

[0055] In one embodiment, the plunger 160 includes a slotted guide 330. The slotted guide 330 may be a cavity in the lower portion of the plunger 160. The slotted guide 330 may be configured to capture a post 340. The post 340 may be secured to the housing 110. Thus, the maximum extension and maximum retraction of the plunger 160 can be controlled by engagement of the post 340 with either side of the slotted guide 330. Furthermore, the plunger 160 may be stabilized by the post 340 within the slotted guide 330. Depending on the flexibility of the plunger 160 and / or the pressure or resistance experienced by the plunger during operation, the plunger 160 may flex under imperfect conditions. Therefore, engagement of the slotted guide 330 with the post 340 can maintain the vertical positioning of the plunger 160.

[0056] Turning Figure 4 and Figure 5 The fluid dispenser may further include one or more plunger gears 410, a click clutch 420, a dispenser needle 440, and a housing cap 450. In one embodiment, the dispenser needle 440 may be disposed inside the cartridge 170. In such an embodiment, the dispenser needle 440 may be configured to direct fluid from the cartridge 170 through the cartridge end 180 to the external environment.

[0057] Furthermore, a housing cap 450 may be disposed on the top of the housing 110. In an embodiment, the housing cap 450 may be configured to facilitate engagement between the first housing member 210 and the second housing member 220. In this embodiment, the housing cap 450 may include a plurality of recesses, wherein a plurality of protrusions on at least one of the first housing member 210 and the second housing member 220 are configured to traverse the recesses and reversibly engage with the housing cap 450. In another embodiment, a first portion of the housing cap 450 may be exposed to the external environment, while a second portion of the cap 450 may be exposed to the interior of the housing 110, and vice versa. In yet another embodiment, a lock 190 may be disposed on the top of the housing cap 450, such that the lock 190 is exposed to the external environment. Furthermore, the housing cap 450 may facilitate direct disassembly of the fluid dispenser 100. In an embodiment, a user may disengage at least one of the first housing member 210 and the second housing member 220 from the housing cap 450, allowing the user to access the interior of the housing 110. In such an embodiment, a user may clean components residing inside the housing 110.

[0058] In an embodiment, one or more plunger gears 410 may be mechanically connected to at least one of the roller 130, the first gear 140, the plunger 160, and the second gear 310. In such an embodiment, one or more plunger gears 410 may be disposed inside the housing 110. As a non-limiting example, one or more plunger gears 410 may include a first plunger gear and a second plunger gear, wherein the gears are arranged on at least one of the first housing member 210 and the second housing member 220. In such an example, the plunger 160 may further include a gear slot 430 in which a portion of the first plunger gear and the second plunger gear may reside.

[0059] In an embodiment, the rotational motion of the user-actuated roller 130 can be converted into the rotational motion of one or more plunger gears 410. Additionally, the rotational motion of one or more plunger gears 410 can be converted into the motion of the plunger 160. In such an embodiment, the motion of the plunger 160 can be linear. As a non-limiting example, the roller 130, traversing both the housing aperture 135 and the plunger 160, can be rotated via at least one of a first and a second portion of the user-actuated roller 130. In such a non-limiting example, the rotational motion of the roller 130 is converted into the rotational motion of both the first and second plunger gears, wherein the gears are partially arranged within the gear slot 430. Continuing with the above example, the rotational motion of the first and second plunger gears can be converted into the linear motion of the plunger 160. Furthermore, one or more plunger gears 410 and the plunger 160 can function as a rack and pinion system, wherein the gear 410 is a pinion and the plunger 160 is a rack. For example, by actuating at least one of the first and second portions of the roller 130, the rotational motion of the roller 130 is converted into the rotational motion of one or more plunger gears 410 acting as pinions, and the rotational motion of the one or more plunger gears 410 is further converted into the linear motion of the plunger 160 acting as a rack. From the user's perspective, the use of the multi-gear system (roller 130, one or more plunger gears 410, and plunger 160) allows fluid to be discharged forward based on the forward rotation of the roller 130. Similarly, from the user's perspective, the backward rotation of the roller 130 can cause fluid to be drawn back into the device.

[0060] In a further embodiment, the forward rotation of the roller 130 can be stopped when the fluid residing in the cartridge 170 is completely depleted. For example, a user can dispense all the fluid in the cartridge via the forward rotation of the roller 130, and the forward rotation of the roller 130 can be stopped when all the fluid has been dispensed. In such an example, the maximum extension of the plunger 160 can correspond to all the fluid dispensed from the cartridge 170, wherein the fluid dispenser 100 can be in a discharge state (e.g., Figure 4 and Figure 5 (As depicted in the text). The characteristic of the discharge state is that there is no fluid within the barrel 170.

[0061] A click clutch 420 may be disposed within the housing 110. In one embodiment, the click clutch 420 may be mechanically communicated with the roller 130. For example, a user-actuated roller 130 may generate user feedback stimulation via the click clutch 420 for each predetermined increment of movement of the roller 130. In another embodiment, the proximal portion of the click clutch 420 may pivot about a pin disposed within the housing 110, while the distal end of the click clutch 420 may be mechanically communicated with the roller 130. In this embodiment, the distal portion of the click clutch 420 may generate an audible and tactile "click" for each predetermined increment of user-actuated roller 130. This predetermined increment may be defined by the length of one of a plurality of clutch actuation members 930 (described in more detail below).

[0062] Figure 6 and Figure 7 An embodiment of the gear mechanism of the fluid dispenser 100 in an undischarged state is illustrated. In this embodiment, the undischarged state can be caused by the maximum retraction of the plunger 160, which is facilitated by engagement of the plunger 340 with either side of the slot guide 330. The undischarged state is characterized by the presence of fluid within the cartridge 170. In the undischarged state, the plunger tip 610 may be visible within the cartridge 170. In this embodiment, the plunger tip 610 may be disposed on at least one of the distal end 1120 and the proximal end 1130 of the plunger 160. In such an embodiment, the plunger tip 610 may be in fluid communication with at least one of the cartridge 170, the lock 190, and the housing cap 450. In another embodiment, movement of the plunger 160 may correspond to movement of the plunger tip 610, wherein at least one of the plunger 160 and the plunger tip 610 may move from the interior of the housing 110 to the external environment or at least partially above the housing cap 450. In an alternative embodiment, the plunger tip 610 may be prevented from entering the interior of the housing 110. For example, when roller 130 moves backward, plunger end 610 may not be able to move through lock 190. In such an example, the inability of plunger end 610 to move through lock 190 may correspond to the maximum retraction of plunger 160, which is facilitated by engagement of plunger 340 with either side of slot guide 330.

[0063] In an embodiment, the fluid dispenser 100 can gradually transition from a non-discharged state to a discharged state. As a non-limiting example, the fluid dispenser 100 can begin in a non-discharged state, where the cartridge 170 is filled with fluid and the plunger 160 is maximally retracted. The fluid dispenser 100 can end in a discharged state, where the cartridge 170 is empty and the plunger 160 is maximally extended. To transition from the non-discharged state to the discharged state, a user can actuate the roller 130, which causes linear movement of the plunger 160 and the plunger tip 610. A predetermined increment of movement of the roller 130 can correspond to a predetermined distance traveled by the plunger tip 610, and thus to a predetermined amount of fluid dispensed from the cartridge 170.

[0064] refer to Figures 8 to 11 One or more plunger gears 410 may include a primary gear 810 and a secondary gear 830. In an embodiment, the secondary gear 830 may be disposed on top of the primary gear 810. In such an embodiment, the secondary gear 830 may have a smaller circumference than the primary gear 810, or vice versa.

[0065] Further, the primary gear 810 and the secondary gear 830 may be composed of primary gear teeth 820 and secondary gear teeth 840, respectively. In an embodiment, the primary gear teeth 820 and secondary gear teeth 840 may be mechanically connected to at least one of the roller 130 and the plunger 160. For example, the primary gear 810 may be mechanically connected to the first gear 920 of the roller 130. Further, the secondary gear 830 may be mechanically connected to a plurality of plunger teeth 1110 arranged in the gear slot 430 of the plunger 160. In an alternative embodiment, the primary gear 810, which is mechanically connected to the first gear 920, and the secondary gear 830, which is mechanically connected to the plurality of plunger teeth 1110, may work together to move the plunger 160. As a non-limiting example, rotational actuation of the roller 130 may correspond to rotational movement of the first gear 910. The rotational movement of the first gear 910, when mechanically connected to the primary gear 810, may cause rotational movement of both the primary gear 810 and the secondary gear 830. Therefore, the rotational motion of the secondary gear 830 can lead to the linear motion of the plunger 160 when it is mechanically connected with the multiple plunger teeth 1110.

[0066] In one embodiment, one or more plunger gears 410 may include a first plunger gear and a second plunger gear. The first plunger gear and the second plunger gear may each include a primary gear 810 and a secondary gear 830. In another embodiment, the first plunger gear may be disposed on a first housing member 210, and the second plunger gear may be disposed on a second housing member 220, thereby forming a space in which the plunger 160 can reside. In such an embodiment, the primary gear 810 of the first plunger may be in mechanical communication with the first gear 910 of the roller 130, and the secondary gear 830 may be in mechanical communication with a plurality of plunger teeth 1110 arranged in the gear slot 430. Further, the primary gear 810 of the second plunger gear may be in mechanical communication with the second gear 1010 of the roller 130, and the secondary gear 830 may be in mechanical communication with a plurality of plunger teeth 1110 arranged in the gear slot 430. The first plunger gear, the second plunger gear, the roller 130, and the plunger 160 may work together to distribute fluid. For example, user rotational actuation of the wheel base 910 of the rolling wheel 130 can be converted into rotational motion of at least one of the first gear 920, the plurality of clutch actuation members 930, and the second gear 1010. Furthermore, the rotational motion of the first gear 920 and the second gear 1010 can be converted into rotational motion of a primary gear 810 and a secondary gear 830, including a first plunger gear and a second plunger gear. The rotational motion of the secondary gear 830, when mechanically in communication with the plurality of plunger teeth 1110, can be converted into linear motion of the plunger 160 and / or the plunger tip 610. The linear motion of the plunger 160 and / or the plunger tip 610 can drive fluid from the cartridge 170 through the dispenser needle 440 and out of the cartridge tip 180 into the external environment. The above embodiments can improve user usability. For example, the embodiments may include a transmission ratio that requires less user torque to dispense fluid. This embodiment may be desirable for users with reduced hand strength. In yet another embodiment, the gear slot 430 may be configured to receive at least one of the primary gear 810 and the secondary gear 830.

[0067] In one embodiment, at least one of the first gear 920, the plurality of clutch actuating members 930, and the second gear 1010 can be mounted to the wheel base 910. In a further embodiment, the first gear 920 and the second gear 1010 can be arranged on opposite sides of the wheel base 910. In this embodiment, the plurality of actuating members 930 can be mounted on the first gear 920 or the second gear 1010. For example, the plurality of actuating members 930 can be mounted on a first side of the wheel base 910, wherein the first gear 920 or the second gear 1010 can be mounted on the actuating members 930.

[0068] Multiple actuating members 930 may be mechanically connected to a click clutch 420. In an embodiment, rotational motion of the rolling base 910 may be converted into rotational motion of the multiple actuating members 930. In this embodiment, a user feedback stimulus may be generated when the click clutch 420 slides from one of the multiple actuating members 930 to the second. For example, the length of one of the multiple actuating members 930 may define a predetermined increment, wherein a user feedback stimulus is generated after the click clutch 420 slides along that length. In such an example, the distal end of the click clutch 420, which is mechanically connected to the multiple actuating members 930, may generate an auditory and tactile "click" sound for each length of one of the multiple actuating members 930 along which the click clutch 420 travels.

[0069] refer to Figure 12 The fluid dispenser 100 may further include a dispenser cap clip 1210. The clip 1210 may be attached to the dispenser cap 120. In such an embodiment, the dispenser cap clip 1210 allows a user to reversibly attach the fluid dispenser 100 to an article.

[0070] Turning Figure 13 The cartridge 170 may further include one or more cartridge channels 1310. In one embodiment, one or more cartridge channels 1310 may be arranged at a first end and / or a second end of the cartridge 170. In another embodiment, one or more cartridge channels 1310 may be arranged on a cartridge end opposite to a cartridge end 180. For example, one or more cartridge channels may be arranged on a first end of the cartridge 170, and a cartridge end 180 may be arranged on a second end of the cartridge 170, or vice versa.

[0071] In yet another embodiment, one or more cartridge passages 1310 may traverse cartridge 170, such that the interior of cartridge 170 is in fluid communication with the external environment. For example, one or more cartridge passages 1310 may prevent pressure buildup inside cartridge 170 by allowing air to move freely between the interior and external environment of cartridge 170. In such an example, the free movement of air between the interior and external environment of cartridge 170 facilitated by one or more cartridge passages 1310 may prevent fluid leakage from the interior of cartridge 170.

[0072] The cartridge may further include a cartridge thread 1320. In an embodiment, the cartridge thread 1320 may facilitate a reverse connection between the cartridge end 180 and the cartridge 170. In a further embodiment, the cartridge thread 1320 may be shortened to enhance the visibility of the fluid within the cartridge 170, wherein the enhanced visibility can be achieved without assembling the cartridge end 180 to the cartridge 170. In a further embodiment, the pitch and / or length of the threaded portion of the cartridge thread 1320 may be modified.

[0073] Finally, other implementations of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice disclosed herein. The specification and examples are intended to be considered merely exemplary, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the appended claims.

[0074] The different elements described herein within the context of one or more embodiments may be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. Furthermore, the processes described herein are not limited to the specific embodiments described. For example, the processes described herein are not limited to the specific order of processing described herein, but rather, process blocks may be reordered, combined, removed, or executed in parallel or serially as needed to achieve the results described herein.

[0075] It should be further understood that, without departing from the scope of the appended claims, those skilled in the art can make various changes to the details, materials and arrangement of the parts described and illustrated herein.

[0076] All references, patents and patent applications and publications cited or mentioned in this application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Finally, other implementations of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of this disclosure disclosed herein. The specification and examples are intended to be considered merely exemplary, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A fluid distributor, characterized in that, include: case; A cartridge case, wherein the cartridge case encloses a fluid; Roller, the roller comprising: The first part is disposed inside the housing. The second part, which partially protrudes from the housing, and internal teeth of the roller; A first gear, the first gear including a first gear external tooth, the first gear being arranged inside the housing, the first gear external tooth being mechanically connected to the roller internal tooth; The plunger includes external teeth that are mechanically connected to the external teeth of the first gear, and is in fluid communication with the cartridge case. The plunger further includes plunger grooves. The roller passes through the plunger groove. The plunger is configured to move within the housing and the cartridge. The plunger is configured to compress the fluid. The compression of the fluid is configured to drive the fluid from a cartridge release section disposed at the top of the cartridge.

2. The fluid distributor according to claim 1, wherein, The housing includes: A first housing component, the first housing component having a first notch, and The second housing component has a second recess. The first notch and the second notch form the housing opening.

3. The fluid distributor according to claim 1, wherein, The fluid distributor further includes: A lock, which is disposed on the housing, The lock is in fluid communication with the interior of the housing.

4. The fluid distributor according to claim 1, wherein, The fluid dispenser further includes a dispenser cap reversibly coupled to the housing, such that the fluid dispenser can be in at least one of an open configuration and a closed configuration.

5. The fluid distributor according to claim 1, wherein, The roller generates feedback stimuli with a predetermined increment of rotational motion.

6. The fluid distributor according to claim 5, wherein, The rollers compress a predetermined volume of fluid with the predetermined increment of rotational motion.

7. The fluid distributor according to claim 5, wherein, The predetermined increment is 60 degrees.

8. The fluid distributor according to claim 6, wherein, The predetermined volume is 0.05 mL.

9. The fluid distributor according to claim 8, wherein: The rotational motion of the roller is converted into the rotational motion of the first gear. The rotational motion of the first gear is converted into the linear motion of the plunger, and The linear motion of the plunger compresses the predetermined volume of fluid.

10. A fluid distributor, characterized in that, include: case; A cartridge case, wherein the cartridge case encloses a fluid; Roller, the roller comprising: The first part is disposed inside the housing. The second part, which partially protrudes from the housing, internal gears of the roller And the external teeth of the roller; A first gear, the first gear including a first gear external tooth, the first gear being arranged inside the housing, the first gear external tooth being mechanically connected to the roller internal tooth; The second gear includes a first set of second gear teeth and a second set of second gear teeth. The second gear is arranged inside the housing, and the first set of second gear teeth is mechanically connected to the outer teeth of the first gear. The plunger includes external teeth that are mechanically connected to the teeth of the second gear in the second set, and is in fluid communication with the cartridge case. The plunger further includes plunger grooves. The roller passes through the plunger groove. The plunger is configured to move within the housing and the cartridge. The plunger is configured to compress the fluid. The compression of the fluid is configured to drive the fluid from a cartridge release section disposed at the top of the cartridge.

11. The fluid distributor according to claim 10, wherein, The second gear is a two-stage gear.

12. The fluid distributor according to claim 10, wherein, The fluid distributor further includes rollers arranged adjacent to the plunger.

13. The fluid distributor according to claim 10, wherein, The fluid distributor further includes a slotted guide disposed within the lower portion of the plunger.

14. The fluid distributor according to claim 13, wherein, The fluid distributor further includes a column captured by the slotted guide.

15. A fluid distributor, characterized in that, include: case; A cartridge case, wherein the cartridge case encloses a fluid; Roller, the roller comprising: Wheel base, the wheel base comprising: The first part, the first part being disposed inside the housing, and The second part, which partially protrudes from the housing, and At least one gear, said at least one gear being arranged on the wheel base; One or more plunger gears, said one or more plunger gears being mechanically connected to said at least one gear; and A plunger, the plunger being mechanically connected to one or more plunger gears, The plunger is configured to move within the housing and the cartridge. The plunger is configured to compress the fluid. The compression of the fluid is configured to drive the fluid from a cartridge release section disposed at the top of the cartridge.

16. The fluid distributor according to claim 15, wherein, The at least one gear further includes: The first gear, the first gear being arranged on a first side of the base of the gear, and The second gear is arranged on the second side of the wheel base.

17. The fluid distributor according to claim 16, wherein, The one or more plunger gears further include: A first plunger gear, the first plunger gear comprising: The first main gear, which is mechanically connected to the first gear, and A first gear, said first gear being disposed on the first main gear; and a second plunger gear, said second plunger gear comprising: The second main gear, which is mechanically connected to the second gear, and The second gear is arranged on the second main gear.

18. The fluid distributor according to claim 17, wherein, The plunger further includes: Multiple plunger teeth are arranged within the gear slots. The plurality of plunger teeth are mechanically connected to at least one of the first gear and the second gear; and The plunger end, wherein the plunger end is disposed on the distal end of the plunger, The plunger end is configured to compress the fluid. The plunger tip is prohibited from entering the interior of the housing.

19. The fluid distributor according to claim 18, wherein: The rotational motion of the roller is converted into the rotational motion of the first gear and the second gear. The rotational motion of the first gear and the second gear is converted into the rotational motion of the first main gear, the first gear, the second main gear, and the second gear. The rotational motion of the first main gear, the first gear, the second main gear, and the second gear is converted into linear motion of the plunger end. The linear motion at the end of the plunger compresses the predetermined volume of fluid.

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