Multi-component cup, system and method of use

Abstract

A multi-component cup system may include a first reagent reservoir (133) having a first volume, a second reagent reservoir (135) having a second volume, and first and second control apertures (240a, 240b) connected thereto. Each control aperture has a through-hole size optimized for a mixing ratio of reagents in the first and second reservoirs. The system may further include a mixer (340) and a plurality of pistons (420a, 420b) that, when activated, drive the reagents in the first and second reservoirs to a static mixer to produce a mixed coating composition of the first and second reagents.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to apparatus, computer-implemented methods, and systems for providing a spray cup with a 2K coating. Background Technology

[0002] Coating manufacturers typically supply coatings in pre-mixed volumes, ready to apply or ready to be mixed, in the form of a mixture. For example, a coating manufacturer might supply retail stores with several sets of pre-mixed coatings in sealed containers, where the end user either applies the coating or manually adds another agent (such as a hardener) and then applies the coating to a given object. In some cases, users may save remaining, unused volumes for later application, while some mixtures may begin to degrade immediately if not applied quickly and therefore need to be discarded after the project is completed. In industrial environments, coating manufacturers may similarly supply mixed or unmixed coatings, and industrial users can use various equipment to properly mix the toner and binder before applying the coating. Generally, most conventional coatings in the form of primers or color coats can be pre-mixed and subsequently stored without much difficulty.

[0003] However, some coatings, such as "2K coatings," need to be mixed with another component (such as a hardener, catalyst, activator, crosslinking agent, polymerizer, or other similar reactive agent) before application. Once the hardener is applied, depending on the components and the mixture, the end user needs to apply the mixed coating within a fairly limited time. Waste can occur when the required amount and mixture are inaccurate, or if delayed application of the mixture leads to its deterioration. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides systems, apparatus, and methods for delivering coating reagents at the correct mixing ratio. For example, the coating applicator may include a multi-component cup and / or one or more additional compartments. The multi-component cup may include multiple reservoirs. These reservoirs may contain coating reagents or coating reagent containers inserted therein, which cooperate with one or more pistons and pumping devices to provide on-demand mixing of components in appropriate amounts during coating application.

[0005] For example, a multi-component cup system for on-demand containment and mixing of multiple coating reagents may include: a first reagent reservoir having a first volume, connected to a first orifice, the first reservoir being configured to contain a reactive coating reagent, wherein the reactive coating reagent includes a crosslinking agent or catalyst. The multi-component cup may also include a second reagent reservoir having a second volume, connected to a second orifice different from the first orifice, the second reservoir being configured to contain a polymer reagent separately from the first reservoir. Additionally, the multi-component cup may include a first control orifice and a second control orifice, each of the first or second control orifice being communicatively connected to each of the first and second reagent reservoirs, wherein each control orifice has a through-hole size optimized for the mixing ratio of the reagents in the first and second reservoirs. Furthermore, the multi-component cup may include a mixer. Further still, the multi-component cup may include a plurality of pistons that, when activated, drive the reagents in the first and second reservoirs to a static mixer, thereby producing a mixed coating composition of the first and second reagents.

[0006] Additionally, the method of applying a multi-component coating may include adding a quantity of a first reagent to a first reagent reservoir in a multi-component cup, wherein the first reservoir is coupled to a first control orifice to which the coating is to be applied. The first control orifice provides a volumetric flow rate. The method may also include adding a quantity of a second reagent to a second reagent reservoir in the multi-component cup, wherein the second reservoir is coupled to a second control orifice to which the coating is to be applied. The second control orifice provides a volumetric flow rate. Furthermore, the method may include activating a pressure supply source, wherein activation causes the pressure supply source to supply pressurized fluid to a lower nozzle of each of the first and second reagent reservoirs. Moreover, the method may include using the pressurized gas to drive a piston in the first reagent reservoir and a piston in the second reagent reservoir to pump a corresponding reagent outward to the corresponding first or second control orifice. The first and second orifices result in different amounts of the first reagent and the second reagent being mixed to form a reagent mixture consistent with a predetermined mixing ratio.

[0007] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the following description, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of this disclosure. These features and advantages can be realized and obtained by means and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or may be learned by practice of the examples set forth below. Attached Figure Description

[0008] To illustrate how the aforementioned and other advantages and features can be obtained, a more specific description of the subject matter briefly described above will be presented with reference to specific examples shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings depict only typical examples and are therefore not intended to limit the scope; the examples will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the drawings, in which:

[0009] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a system for dispensing customized coating reagents is shown, which is intended for use with a coating application apparatus according to this disclosure;

[0010] Figure 2A shows an exemplary schematic diagram of the operation of a multi-component cup when the coating reagent is provided directly and the cap is open, according to one aspect of this disclosure;

[0011] Figure 2B Another exemplary schematic diagram of a multi-component cup in Figure 2A according to one aspect of this disclosure (albeit in a closed-lid configuration) is shown, and the direction of reagent flow is further illustrated;

[0012] Figure 3A Several possible multi-component cups that can be used with a paint applicator are shown according to one aspect of this disclosure;

[0013] Figure 3B Various multi-angle views of an exemplary multi-component cup according to one aspect of this disclosure are shown;

[0014] Figure 4A Further orientation and exploded views of an exemplary multi-component cup according to one aspect of this disclosure are shown;

[0015] Figure 4B Various orientation views of a coated reagent container and piston assembly according to one aspect of this disclosure are shown, as well as an exploded view of an exemplary coated reagent container and piston assembly for use with a multi-component cup;

[0016] Figure 4C Various views of an exemplary control orifice for use with reagent delivery according to one aspect of this disclosure are shown;

[0017] Figure 5A shows a conceptual extended schematic diagram illustrating various components that can be used to facilitate reagent flow and mixing, according to one aspect of this disclosure;

[0018] Figure 5B An exemplary use of an alternative version of the multi-component cup according to one aspect of this disclosure is shown when used with a lid, and the components of FIG5A are miniaturized and positioned within the multi-component cup; and

[0019] Figure 6A flowchart illustrating a series of actions performed in a method using a multi-component cup according to one aspect of this disclosure is provided. Detailed Implementation

[0020] This disclosure provides systems, apparatus, and methods for delivering coating reagents at the correct mixing ratio. For example, the coating applicator may include a multi-component cup and / or one or more additional compartments. The multi-component cup may include multiple reservoirs. These reservoirs may contain coating reagents or coating reagent containers inserted therein, which cooperate with one or more pistons and pumping devices to provide on-demand mixing of components in appropriate amounts during coating application.

[0021] As will be more fully understood from the following description and claims, one or more multi-component cups can achieve controlled mixing and precise application to the object to be coated. This allows for the application of highly customized coating agents, enabling them to be delivered substantially in an on-demand format and with a wide range of usable properties in the finished product. By interpretation, coating systems (such as varnishes or other coating systems) can include a variety of different types of resin / polymer agents with advantageous stability. For example, resin agents can contain one or more unique resins, as well as additives such as catalysts, ultraviolet absorbers (UVA) / or hindered amine light stabilizers (HAL) additives, homogenizers, and solvents to achieve a viscosity of about 500 centipoise (cP). Resin agents can also contain pigments or fillers. Several unique resins can include a variety of resins with different polymer properties, including resins that differ in Mw, Tg, functionality, and reactivity. Dispensing devices (e.g., 110, Figure 1 It can select the most suitable resin / polymer reagent for a given situation and provide customized volumes / quantities of resin reagents and mixtures according to the needs of given operating conditions.

[0022] Additionally, this disclosure may include a variety of reagents for use with polymer reagents, such as crosslinking agent reagents in the case of coatings in the form of varnishes, provided via a multi-component cup. The crosslinking agent reagent may contain a unique type of crosslinking agent along with a solvent to achieve a viscosity of approximately 500 cP, or other desired application or finishing properties. Several unique crosslinking agents can be utilized to cover a wide range of crosslinking agent properties, including Mw, Tg, functionality, and reactivity. Dispensing devices (e.g., 110, Figure 1 Crosslinking agent reagents, along with any other additives, can be provided in various volumes and mixing ratios. The dispensing devices (e.g., 110) discussed more fully herein can be physical containers that contain or store various types of crosslinking agent reagents and dispense the crosslinking agent in the required relevant amounts.

[0023] Furthermore, this disclosure provides for use with multi-component cups, various catalytic reagents, and different types of catalyst reagents. Each catalytic reagent may further include a solution comprising one or more catalysts, catalyst modifiers, inhibitors, and solvents. The concentration of the catalyst in the reagent may range from 1% to 100%. Still further, this disclosure provides for various reducing agent reagents and various different types of reducing agent reagents. Each reducing agent reagent may also include one or more solvents having specific ranges of physical properties, such as relative evaporation rate and Hansen solubility parameter.

[0024] In one example, an end user may store or otherwise contain various catalyst or reducing agent reagents in a variety of physical containers, which may include sealed containers of varying volumes. A dispenser can access these sealed containers to distribute quantities to the end user. The user can then determine the appropriate amounts and specific ratios of the two different components to be mixed using a coating (or spraying) applicator. This determination can be provided by mixing instructions supplied with the given reagent. The user can then select various devices to ensure that the reagents are mixed and applied as needed according to the correct ratios provided in the instructions, thereby maximizing productivity while minimizing waste.

[0025] First, in order to understand the purposes of this disclosure, the article “a” or “an” should be understood herein to include “one or more”. That is, although this disclosure may be presented as “a” feature, “a” element, etc., any of these components or other listed components may be used according to this disclosure.

[0026] Now turn to the attached diagram. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a system 100 for applying a coating agent to an object using a multi-component cup, according to this disclosure, is shown. Specifically, Figure 1The display system 100 includes a coating applicator 150, which can be used to apply a mixture of various reagents to an object 140 (e.g., the car shown) in a coating application area 160. The coating application area 160 may include, for example, a paint booth or other suitable application location. In the coating application area 160, the spray applicator 150 (e.g., whether robotically operated or operated by a human user) can apply, or mix and apply, a given set of coating reagents (e.g., from reagent containers 133, 135) to a given object, such as the vehicle 140 shown. Furthermore, the vehicle 140 shown is just one type of object that can be coated or painted in the coating application area 160. The coating applicator 150 can, for example, spray other types of objects or parts thereof as needed, including main panels, original parts, replacement parts, etc. Other objects may include boats, bicycles, industrial, commercial or other residential equipment, doors, walls and their components or parts. Therefore, the terms object and vehicle will be understood to broadly encompass any physical object to be coated.

[0027] Additionally, in some instances, the reagent containers 133 and 135 shown can be placed directly into multi-component cups or "containers" (e.g., Figures 3A to 3B In any of 200a to 200f, this enables on-demand and precise mixing of reagents during application. For example, coating applicator 150 may include electrophoretic coating equipment, coating atomizer, spray gun, or other forms of coating application device. Physical containers 133, 135, etc., may then be configured for direct application to coating applicator 150. For example, as per Figures 2A to 200f Figure 6 More fully understood, physical containers 133, 135 may include specific physical connection interfaces (e.g., caps 120a / b or other interfaces within upper removable caps) that physically and directly engage with corresponding physical interfaces of the multi-component cups or their caps, and are then attached to the spray applicator 150. Precise physical interconnections may be employed in a variety of different ways between the coating applicator 150 and physical containers 133, 135, as discussed more fully below.

[0028] Generally speaking, Figure 1 The physical containers 133 and 135 shown are abstract representations and can include various shapes and configurations. For example, although Figure 1 A simple circular container with lids 120a and 120b is shown, but other figures in this document (e.g., Figure 4A and Figure 4BThe diagram illustrates other lid shapes that can be used to connect physical containers 133, 135 for reagent delivery. In any case, physical containers 133, 135 can be understood as lids of a particular shape that are directly connected to or overlap the upper portion of a given reagent container 133, 135, or that can be attached to one or more channels (e.g., press-fit, threaded, snap-fit, etc.) that allow reagent from reagent reservoirs (e.g., 310a to 310b) to flow into them.

[0029] In other cases, the user can manually release the lids of physical containers 133, 135 and simply pour the specific reagent directly from physical containers 133, 135 into a given cup (or reservoir therein) attached to the coating applicator 150, such as multi-component cup 200a (Figure 2C). Figure 3A , Figure 4A (etc.). In a further embodiment, reagent containers 133 and 135 can be directly attached to the interface of the spray applicator 150 (etc.). Figure 4A (Figure 5A). Similarly, the user can open and manually mix the container according to the provided mixing instructions, and then provide the mixed material to an optional reservoir, which can be used as a mixing reservoir accessed by the coating applicator 150 (e.g., Figure 3B ,300).

[0030] As is more fully understood herein, various components can be employed to ensure that a given reagent flows in a specific direction and volume to ensure precise mixing and delivery. Additionally, as further understood herein, the reagent can be supplied from the multi-component cup 200(af) via a gravity-feed mechanism or even via a pressurized system. As will be understood from this disclosure and the claims, specific drive mechanisms are generally interchangeable and, in most cases, precise mixing ratios can be achieved by means of channels and orifices used in conjunction with the flow of the reagent (or reagent mixture). In further additional or alternative instances, precise mixing can be achieved, at least in part, by variable pressure flow, such as by applying differential pressure in one reagent reservoir relative to another, thereby applying different amounts (and / or at different intervals) of reagent to the mixing reservoir.

[0031] Please refer to the attached diagram. Figure 2A and Figure 2B A conceptual illustration of fluid / reagent flow using a universal multi-component cup 200 employing a pressurized drive system (i.e., using pressurized fluid and a piston) is provided. In this example, the multi-component cup 200 (or "2K cup") includes multiple reagent reservoirs, namely reagent reservoirs 210a, 210b, which contain various coated reagents in an unmixed state and are sealed to each other to prevent cross-reaction or contamination. Figure 2A and Figure 2BFurther illustrating the exemplary multi-component cup 200, it may include caps 220a and 220b, which are then coupled to the catheter assembly 260. Figure 2A further illustrates that the catheter assembly 260 may include various channels, orifices, and other components (e.g., activatable solenoids) as needed, which are then connected to the corresponding caps 220a, 220b, which seal the reagents to prevent cross-contamination or mixing.

[0032] For example, Figure 2A shows that caps 220a, 220b can be directly connected to the walls of the corresponding reservoirs 210a, 210b, or directly connected to physical containers (e.g., 133, 135) inserted into a given reservoir 210a, 210b. The conduit assembly 260 may further include upper nozzle caps 220a and 220b and control orifices 240a, 240b. Figure 2A and Figure 2B Further illustration shows that reservoirs 210a, 210b include or are otherwise coupled to lower nozzle interfaces 400a, 400b. Lower nozzle interfaces 400a, 400b can be used to connect multi-component cups to one or more sources of pressurized fluid (e.g., pressurized air). Figure 2B The reservoirs 210a and 210b are shown to include various pistons 420a and 420b. It should be understood that... Figure 2B For ease of illustration, the lower nozzle ports 400a and 400b are omitted from the view. However, pistons 420a and 420b will be understood as being driven by pressurized fluid supplied via the lower nozzle ports 400a and 400b shown in FIG. 2A. Figure 2B Further demonstrating that the lid 220a of the multi-component cup in Figure 2A is closed, it enables direct connection between the catheter assembly 260 and the reagent reservoirs 210a and 210b.

[0033] In pressurized operation of the device, the user can connect a pressurized fluid channel (not shown) to lower nozzles 400a, 400b. When the pressurized fluid device is activated, pressurized fluid can flow upward through the lower nozzle ports 400a, 400b, driving pistons 420a and 420b. The activated pistons 420a and 420b then provide pressure that drives the corresponding coating reagent in the given reservoirs 210a, 210b upward through the conduit assembly 260 and into the shown mixing conduit 320a. The pressurized fluid delivery can be configured to apply varying amounts of pressure via the given pistons to at least partially regulate the volumetric flow rate from one reservoir or the other to the coating applicator 150 via the mixing conduit. In the mixing conduit 320a, the reagent swirls around a mixer 340, which can include a dynamic mixer or a static mixer. In the case shown, the mixer 340 is a static mixer and can optionally be replaceable or disposable if the given cup is desired to be reused. The mixed reagent can then flow directly to the coating applicator 150, or it can be driven to an optional reservoir (e.g., 300). Figure 3B The water is sprayed from the nozzle onto object 140.

[0034] In an alternative embodiment, the conduit assembly 260 can be configured for gravity delivery. In this case, the conduit assembly 260 can be positioned below the reservoirs 210a, 210b, such as connected to the lower nozzles 400a, 400b. When the user activates the coating applicator 150, valves (not shown) in the lower nozzles 400a, 400b can be opened, allowing the reagent to flow downwards by gravity through the conduit assembly and through orifices 240a, 240b. In this embodiment, the mixing conduit 320a and the static mixer 340 can be shortened or alternatively positioned below the lower nozzles 400a, 400b and in series with the downward flow of the reagent. In a further alternative, the mixing conduit 320a and the static mixer 340 can be completely eliminated, such that only orifices 240a and 240b distinguish the amount of reagent dripped into the coating applicator 150 at any given time. With the use of orifices 240a, 240b, pistons 420a, 420b, lower nozzles 400a, 400b, mixing conduit 320a, and static mixer 340, there are a variety of additional and alternative mechanisms for delivering fluid to coating applicator 150, whether by applied pressure, gravity flow, or a combination thereof.

[0035] Figure 3A Various alternative containers (e.g., 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d) that can be used in different formats to receive dispensed reagents are shown, especially various iterations of multi-component cups (or "2K cups"). Figure 3AFurther examples of alternative container / 2K cup formats 200a to 200b are shown, by way of example only, including circular or cylindrical formats with internal compartment divisions, while containers 200c to 200d are shown as square or rectangular containers with internal compartment divisions. Thus, as discussed above, the compartment divisions in the various multi-component cups or containers 200a to 200d (or containers within containers) can be used to separate reactive components or other types of reagents that may denature more rapidly upon mixing. In other cases, a given container (whether a single-compartment or multi-compartment container) may contain a sealable sac for one of the compartments, while the other compartments remain open to air. In yet another case, the container may include lids (e.g., lids 120a / b, 220a / b) specifically shaped to preserve and seal the compartments within the container or containers 200a to 200d. It should be understood that 2K cups of other shapes and compartment configurations can be used according to this disclosure.

[0036] Figure 3B An alternative orientation for a specific multi-component cup 200a is shown. For example, as shown in Figure 2A to... Figure 2B As shown, Figure 3B The multi-component (i.e., 2K) cup 200a shown may include a housing or body 305 and multiple internal compartments or reservoirs 300, 310a, 310b, which in some cases enable separation of the coating reagents, while in others contain a mixture of coating reagents. Accordingly, Figure 3B The 2K cup shown may include first and second reagent reservoirs 310a, 310b arranged adjacent to the optional reservoir 300. The optional reservoir 300 may include a mixture reservoir for containing mixed reagents prior to application, or may contain other mechanical and / or electrical components required to serve the operations described herein. Figure 3B Further illustrated, the 2K cup 200a may include an upper mixing conduit 320 and may optionally include an optional lower release conduit 330. When the reservoir 300 includes this optional reservoir, the lower release conduit 300 may allow reagents to flow in mixed form (via a static mixer 340) from the mixing conduit 320 into the optional reservoir 300 for subsequent delivery.

[0037] In one example, optional reservoir 300 can be used to provide a suitable “buffer” to contain mixed reagents from reservoirs 310a, 310b. For example, a user may expect to provide a consistent pressure load to coating applicator 150. With continuous or repeated use of any given multi-component cups 200 (e.g., 200a to 200f), reagents may adhere over time to the walls of a given cup 200 or other areas in the conduit assembly 260, which may slow reagent flow and / or otherwise reduce the pressure at which mixed reagents can be applied to coating applicator 150. Having optional reservoir 300 allows mixed reagents to be maintained so that they can flow directly from optional reservoir 300 to coating applicator 150 at a consistent flow rate and at a consistent pressure independent of the variable, (over time) decreasing pressure through reagent reservoirs 210a, 210b and conduit assembly 260. In one example, the pressure of the reagent to be delivered to the coating applicator is between 5 psi and 50 psi, preferably between 15 psi and 40 psi, more preferably between 25 psi and 35 psi, or more preferably between 30 psi and 32 psi. An optional reservoir 300 can thus provide a buffer, enabling the reagent to flow to the coating applicator 150 at a consistent pressure and flow rate.

[0038] As used herein, the term “containing” in the context of the multi-component cup 200(ae) means that the given reservoirs 310a, 310b, 310c, 310d, etc., can at least temporarily store the coated reagent, whether inside a container (whether rigid, flexible, etc.) or as the original reagent poured directly into it. In this case, containing means that the reagent poured into it is held in place without spilling laterally outside the cup or outside the wall provided by the cup holder 305. In other words, the reservoir can hold the reagent cup or sac directly inserted into the reservoir, or maintain the fluid form poured directly into the given reservoir without leakage or spillage outside the cup. Furthermore, the term “sealed” or providing a “seal” means that the reagents are kept sufficiently separated before mixing, so that they do not mix unintentionally without through the given orifices disclosed herein. This can be accomplished by using the given reagent containers (133, 135, 133a, 135a), or by a combination of the side walls of the multi-component cup body 305 and the upper lid 500, as discussed more fully herein. Therefore, the terms "containing" or "sealing" and their corresponding gerund forms refer to maintaining reagents in their intended form (i.e., intended to be separate, or in a state of intentional mixing) without spillage or other unintentional mixing between containers. In other words, a multi-component cup can contain or maintain the intended volume of mixed reagents in container 300 after mixing, and maintain the seal of the mixed or unmixed form of reagents to prevent spillage or leakage between containers, except at a specific intended time or location.

[0039] Referring again to the accompanying drawings, in one method of operation, reservoirs 310a, 310b can receive reagents by the user positioning a given reagent container within the reservoirs 310a, 310b, or the contents of reagent containers 133, 135 can be poured directly into reagent reservoirs 310(ab). As more fully understood herein, channels connected to reagent containers 133, 135 can extend into a mixing conduit 320, which can further include a mixer 340, such as a static mixer, positioned therein. As the name suggests, a static mixer does not necessarily need to be rotated and typically does not rotate. However, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited thereto, and a 2K cup can also employ a rotary mixer, which is supplied, for example, from a coating applicator 150 / spray gun ( Figure 1 , Figure 4A One or more extended components or drivers are driven. In any case, and as in Figures 4A to 6 As further understood, the coating agent can be pumped into the mixing conduit 320 through a channel (e.g., Figure 2A), whereby the coating agent will essentially swirl around a given mixer 340 until it exits the mixer through a lower release conduit 330 and enters the optional reservoir 300. The mixed agents can then be retained in the optional reservoir 300 until, as needed, through the coating applicator 150 gun / sprayer.

[0040] Figure 4A Additional details and orientations are shown, including Figure 3B Assembly and exploded views of the multi-component cup 200a. For example, Figure 4A The 2K cup 200a is shown to include several additional elements, such as the previously described lower nozzle interfaces 400a, 400b, which can receive the ends of given coated reagent containers 133a, 135b. That is, the lower ends of reagent containers 133a, 135a can be configured to mate with or otherwise screwed into the cavities of the lower nozzle interfaces 400a, 400b. The internal cavities of the lower nozzle interfaces 400a, 400b can be screwed in via threads in a reciprocating locking manner at the lower edge of the reagent containers 133a, 135a.

[0041] The user can then connect the lower nozzle interfaces 400a, 400b to one or more pressure supply conduits, such as channels or other pipes connected to a pressurized air supply source. In the gravity delivery example, the lower nozzles 400a, 400b can be directly connected to the coating applicator 150, or connected to alternatively arranged conduit assemblies 260 and / or mixing conduits 320a, as previously described. However, in this example, Figure 4A and Figure 4BFurther illustration shows that reagent containers 133a, 135a further include one or more pistons 420. Alternatively, the 2K cup can be assembled with the lower nozzle interfaces 400a, 400b and the pistons 420 within each reservoir, instead of inserting the pistons 420 into reagent containers 133a, 135a. For example, in cases where the end user pours the reagent directly into reagent reservoirs 310a, 310b instead of using reagent containers 133a, 135a. In either case, pressurized fluid can be driven by the nozzles 400a, 400b directly against the pistons 420 in the two reservoirs 310a, 310b (or directly against the pistons within a given reagent container 133a, 133b), thereby driving the reagent fluid upwards / outwards.

[0042] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Various upper nozzles 430a and 430b are further shown, serving as delivery points from reagent containers 430a and 430b to another attachment channel (Figure 5A). Additionally, Figure 4B An assembly view of reagent containers 133a / 135a is shown, with the user having added a volume control orifice 440 (or "control orifice"). Generally, the control orifice 440(a / b) can provide flow rate limitation or regulation for the flow of a given reagent from reagent containers 430a / 430b. Therefore, the control orifice 440 allows the user to control the relative amount pumped from the reagent container, thus helping to create more precise mixtures and eliminating end-user errors. That is, the control orifice 440 can be optimized with through-holes of different sizes to limit or enhance reagent flow consistent with reagent viscosity. The control orifice 440 can be attached to the upper nozzle 430(a / b) via various mechanisms, such as push-in connection mechanisms or threaded mechanisms.

[0043] Figure 4C Various perspective views of the exemplary control orifice 440(ab) are shown. In particular, Figure 4C An exemplary control orifice 440 is shown, which may include a threaded end 445 and an opposing end 450, the opposing end of which may include a push-in to a connecting fitting. A bottom view shows that the threaded end 445 of the control orifice 440 may include a through hole (orifice) 460a. Figure 4C Further illustration shows the through-hole extending to the top, as shown in the top view, where through-hole 460b is shown. Manufacturers can create different control orifices with different sizes of through-holes to correspond to the desired flow rate, making the through-hole / orifice 460(a / b) wider or smaller for different applications. As previously mentioned, this can include different reagent viscosity considerations, as well as the flow to be delivered to the mixing conduit 320, across and around the mixer 340 ( Figure 4D And finally enter the relative amount of the optional storage 300.

[0044] For example, if the resulting mixture is primarily a coating reagent (polymer) relative to another (crosslinking agent), the control port (e.g., 440a) attached to the polymer-containing coating reagent container (e.g., 133a) may have a larger through-hole than the control port (e.g., 440b) attached to the crosslinking agent-containing coating reagent container (e.g., 135a), and vice versa. The manufacturer can additionally regulate the delivery and mixing of such quantities by varying the amount of pressure applied to the piston 420 in each given reagent reservoir 310a, 310b. In some cases, the multi-component cup / system may be configured with multiple control points to adjust / regulate the delivery, flow, and amount of reagent entering the optional reservoir 300.

[0045] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Alternative conceptual views of the 2K cup are shown, namely cup 200a used with or without lid 500. For example, Figure 5A shows... Figure 4A and Figure 4B An exemplary embodiment is provided, wherein the end user employs coated reagent containers 133a and 135b within reservoirs 310a and 310b. Figure 5A shows the various components in an unfolded form to better illustrate the direction of fluid flow; however, it should be understood that desired dimensions may include miniaturizing such components for neat assembly within a 2K cup lid 500, such as... Figure 5B As shown in the diagram. As previously described, the end user can employ gravity-based delivery (as described above) or pressurized delivery. With pressurized delivery, the user can use a pressure mechanism (e.g., pressurized air via lower nozzle interfaces 400a, 400b) to eject reagents from reagent reservoirs 310a, 310b. The applied pressure drives the coating reagent through corresponding control orifices 440a, 440b, thereby delivering varying amounts (e.g., volumes) of coating reagent at any given time. For example, the applied pressure drives the corresponding reagent through a series of additional conduits, such as one or more conduits 510, 530, prior to passing through mixing conduit 320. The pressure further drives the coating reagent through and around mixer 340 (e.g., a static mixer). Figure 4D (), until discharged into the optional storage 300.

[0046] In additional or alternative configurations, conduits 510 and 530 may be connected in series with solenoid 520. The solenoid may be electronically connected to spray gun 150 and / or to other electronic components that may be stored in optional reservoir 300. Generally, solenoid 520 can be used to further adjust the amount of coating agent driven into mixing conduit 320. For example, solenoid 520 may be connected to one or more sensors near or located within optional reservoir 300 to thereby open or close the passage between conduits 510 and 530. In additional or alternative instances, solenoid 520 may be replaced by a manual or pneumatic valve for similar purposes. Regardless of the configuration, the solenoid / valve helps maintain an appropriate amount of mixed coating within reservoir 300, such as when the volume is too low or too high.

[0047] Figure 5B A similar example is shown (albeit with a miniaturized catheter assembly), and a further exception is the 2K cup, which further employs a sealing cap 500. The sealing cap 500 can be completely removable or further attached via a hinge (not shown). Figure 5B The examples shown may be particularly useful for users who pour the coating reagent directly into reservoirs 310a and 310b without using reagent containers 133a and 135a. Generally, the examples shown herein illustrate reagent containers larger than the 2K cup body 305, for ease of description only. The 2K cup 200a and reagent containers 133a and 135a can be specially sized as follows: Figure 5B In the way that they are aligned (with) Figure 4A (For comparison), or users can use a lidless 2K cup for longer containers. Of course, manufacturers can choose to... Figure 5B The exemplary conduits and lines 510, 530 of Figure 5A shown earlier are deployed in a more compact form within the cover 500 and body 305.

[0048] Example 1

[0049] The following example illustrates the effect of differences in orifice size (e.g., through-hole 460a / 460b) on the mixing ratio for a given nozzle (e.g., 400a / 400b). A prototype 2K cup (e.g., 200) was assembled using commercially available materials:

[0050] To quantify the effect of orifice size on the mixing ratio of a two-component paint, a two-component mixture comprising “Component A” and “Component B” was prepared using DC4000 and DCH3085 purchased from PPG Industries. The viscosities of both components were measured using a flow cup conforming to “Deutsches Institut für Normung” (German Institute for Standardization) Standard 4 or “DIN 4”. Component A was prepared by adding 1 g of DMD1627 (a blue colorant available from PPG Industries) to 100 g of DC4000. Component B was prepared by adding 0.25 g of quinoline yellow powder (available from Sigma-Aldrich) to 100 g of DCH3085. The operator mixed the solution for 60 minutes to dissolve the colorant, thus providing Component B.

[0051] Two 2.5 oz Optimum cartridges from Nordson EFD, each with a 0.25-inch NPT (National Pipe Thread) outlet, are filled with either Component A or Component B as described above. Both cartridges are connected to an upstream gas source. Component B is connected to a downstream flow control orifice (part number 6349T13) with a diameter of 0.02 inches, available from McMaster-Carl. Component A is connected to flow control orifices of various sizes to produce the desired mixing ratio. Both flow control units are connected to the same downstream static mixer with a 0.5 cm inner diameter, 10 cm length, and 25 mixing baffles (available from Nordson EFD). The static mixer is connected to a downstream 20 mL vial to collect the mixed material. Mixing begins when the cartridge is placed at 30 psi. When the vial is half full, it is replaced with a new vial. The material in the first and last vials is discarded to eliminate the influence of human factors during mixing start-up and shutdown.

[0052] The material from each vial was applied onto 7B LENETA test paper using a #8 winding bar. The applied material was cured at 60°C for 30 minutes. The color of the applied material was measured using a BYK-MAC multi-angle spectrophotometer. The B* value of the prototype mixed material at 100° was compared with the B* values ​​of components A and B manually mixed at various ratios (Table 1). This specific value (B*) from the CIELAB color space was used because the B* value is most sensitive to shifts on the blue-yellow axis, which occur with changes in the mixing ratio.

[0053] Table 1

[0054]

[0055] Table 2

[0056]

[0057] Based on the data in Tables 1 and 2, the orifice size and ratio for any desired mixing ratio of a particular coating system can be estimated using the following equation: Mixing Ratio (A:B) = -4.176 + (A component flow control orifice diameter in inches) * 282.5, assuming the B component flow control orifice size is constant at 0.02 inches. Table 3 below provides the values ​​calculated using this equation.

[0058] Table 3

[0059]

[0060] This disclosure can also be described in accordance with one or more methods that include a series of actions for achieving a particular result. For example, Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating a series of actions in a method using multi-component cups is provided. Figure 6 The action is described below using Figures 1 to 2B The components are described.

[0061] For example, Figure 6 A method 600 using a multi-component cup is illustrated, which may include an action 610 of adding a first reagent to a reservoir. Action 610 includes adding a measured amount of the first reagent to a first reagent reservoir of the multi-component cup, wherein the first reservoir is coupled to a first control orifice to be applied to the first reagent reservoir, wherein the first control orifice provides a volumetric flow rate. For example, a user may fill the reagent reservoir 310a of the multi-component cup 200a with a reactive reagent (or alternatively a polymeric reagent) for use in the manufacture of a varnish. This can be achieved by dispensing the reagent directly into the reservoir 310a (e.g., FIG. 2C) or by inserting one of the reagent containers 133a or 135a into the reservoir 310a. Furthermore, control orifices such as 440a or 440b may be applied directly to the upper nozzle of the reagent container 133a or 135a based on a determined viscosity of the reagent and the desired relative amount of reagent to be mixed with a reagent in another reagent reservoir. Following these lines of thought, for reagents with similar viscosities, a user can determine the supply reagent to be used, wherein a larger quantity of a given reagent is added to the mixture using a control orifice 440 with relatively large through-holes 460a / 460b, or a smaller quantity of the same reagent is mixed using a control orifice with a smaller through-hole (e.g., half the diameter) of another control orifice. Similarly, a user can determine the through-hole size to match various control orifices to provide a uniform amount of reagent in the mixture.

[0062] Figure 6Method 600 is also shown to include an action 620 of adding a second reagent to a reservoir. Action 620 includes adding a quantity of the second reagent to a second reagent reservoir of a multi-component cup, wherein the second reservoir is coupled to a second control orifice to be applied to the second reagent reservoir, wherein the second control orifice provides a volumetric flow rate. Similar to action 610, a user may fill reagent reservoir 310b of multi-component cup 200a with a polymeric reagent (or, alternatively, a reactive reagent if the polymeric reagent is supplied in a first reservoir) to mix with a reactive reagent, such as a crosslinking agent, hardener, or other catalytic reagent. The user may dispense the polymeric reagent directly into reagent reservoir 310b (e.g., FIG. 2C) or by inserting another of reagent containers 133a or 135a into reagent reservoir 310b. As discussed above with respect to action 610, a user may similarly determine to match a given reagent to a control orifice 440 having a specific through-hole size that is smaller, larger, or similar to the first control orifice to help control the amount of the given reagent in the desired mixture. Naturally, the user may want to match the through-hole size of the second control orifice to the viscosity of the reagent in the second reagent reservoir 310b.

[0063] also, Figure 6 Method 600 is shown to include an action 630 of activating a pressure supply source. Action 630 includes activating the pressure supply source, wherein activation causes the pressure supply source to supply pressurized gas to the lower nozzles of each of the first and second reagent reservoirs. For example, as previously described, a user can activate the pressure supply source, such as by pulling a trigger on the coating applicator 150. The pressure supply source can then be activated to deliver pressurized fluid (e.g., pressurized air or other gas) through the lower nozzles 400a, 400b.

[0064] Following these lines of thought, Figure 6 The method 600 is shown to further include an action 640 of actuating pistons in the first and second reservoirs. Action 640 includes actuating the pistons in the first and second reagent reservoirs with pressurized gas to pump the corresponding reagents outward to the corresponding first or second control orifice. For example, pressurized fluid can be applied to piston 420 in response to pressurized fluid activated by step 630, such as via a separate trigger or clamping mechanism on the coating device 150. This trigger can then actuate piston 420 positioned in reservoirs 310a, 310b. Actuation of piston 420 ejects reagents through the first and second control orifices from reservoirs 310a, 310b and ultimately into mixing conduit 320. Thus, the first and second orifices result in different amounts of the first reagent being mixed with the second reagent to form a reagent mixture consistent with a predetermined mixing ratio.

[0065] Therefore, this disclosure provides numerous systems, components, compositions, and methods that offer many advantages over existing technologies. For example, when customers need to repair and paint their cars, they can be provided with appropriate ready-to-use or ready-to-mix products on demand. This allows coating applicators to focus on spraying paint or other coating formulations without the need for precise selection and mixing of them in precise proportions. This simplifies the end-user's workflow and solves some traditional difficulties. Because coating manufacturers providing the solutions outlined herein offer not only paint but also services that benefit the end-user, they can expand their ways of connecting with end-users. This connection can be facilitated by delivering ready-to-use products best suited to the end-user's needs on demand. That is, both large and small shops can order reagents on demand and apply them accurately and promptly as needed, without errors.

[0066] As previously noted, this disclosure can also be described according to various alternative configurations. For example, in one configuration, reagent delivery is gravity-based, meaning that reagent flows down from a reagent reservoir through a conduit assembly 260, which includes appropriately positioned orifices, channels, and may also include one or more manually or otherwise activated valves for delivering a precise amount of reagent to the coating applicator. In another instance, reagent delivery is pressurized, in which case the system may employ one or more pistons (or other associated actuating mechanisms) that apply pressure from reagent reservoirs 210 / 310 through conduit assembly 260, through a static mixer and / or mixing conduit, and into the coating applicator 150. Optionally, in either case, fluid may be further delivered to an optional reservoir 300. In either case, at least one advantage of these various embodiments is the ability to provide a precise amount of reagent to the coating applicator on demand at a precise ratio. Furthermore, because the multi-component cup can be rinsed and cleaned, and / or because the static mixer can be removed and disposed of, the multi-component cup described herein offers further opportunities to minimize waste. Furthermore, because the given reagents can be mixed and applied as needed, the components and systems of this disclosure allow users to minimize reagent waste.

[0067] This disclosure can be described in various ways according to different configurations and alternative configurations. For example, in a first aspect, a multi-component cup system for on-demand containment and mixing of multiple coating reagents may include: a first reagent reservoir having a first volume connected to a first orifice, the first reservoir being configured to contain a reactive coating reagent, wherein the reactive coating reagent includes a crosslinking agent or catalyst; a second reagent reservoir having a second volume connected to a second orifice different from the first orifice, the second reservoir being configured to contain a polymer reagent separately from the first reservoir; a first control orifice and a second control orifice, each of the first or second control orifice being communicatively connected to each of the first and second reagent reservoirs, wherein each control orifice has a through-hole size optimized for the mixing ratio of the reagents in the first and second reservoirs; a mixer; and a plurality of pistons that, when activated, drive the reagents in the first and second reservoirs to the mixer, thereby producing a mixed coating composition of the first and second reagents.

[0068] In a second aspect, the multi-component cup system according to the first aspect may further include: a mixing conduit for receiving the mixer, the mixing conduit being configured to receive reagents from the first and second reservoirs. In a third aspect, in the multi-component cup system according to either the first or second aspect, the mixer is a static mixer; and movement of the reagents from the first and second reservoirs around the mixer causes the reagents to mix together. In a fourth aspect, the multi-component cup system according to either the second or third aspect may further include an optional reservoir communicatively coupled to the mixing conduit. In a fifth aspect, in the multi-component cup system according to any of the first to fourth aspects, the optional reservoir is used as a mixture reservoir and stores the reagents from the first and second reservoirs in a mixed form; and the optional reservoir provides the mixed form of reagents directly to the coating applicator as needed. In a sixth aspect, the multi-component cup system according to any of the first to fifth aspects may further include: a lid covering at least the first and second reservoirs; wherein the lid seals the first and second coating reagents to prevent them from mixing together within the first and second reservoirs.

[0069] In a seventh aspect, in the multi-component cup system according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, the lid further covers an optional reservoir of the multi-component cup system. In an eighth aspect, the multi-component cup system according to any one of the first to seventh aspects may further include: a lower nozzle interface coupled to each of the first and second reagent reservoirs; wherein each lower nozzle interface couples a pressure supply source to a corresponding piston positioned within the reservoir. In a ninth aspect, in the multi-component cup system according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, each lower nozzle interface includes an internal cavity for receiving a reagent container. In a tenth aspect, in the multi-component cup system according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, the reagent container includes a piston therein; and activation of the pressure supply source causes pressurized air to flow through the lower nozzle interface to drive a corresponding piston within the reagent container.

[0070] In an eleventh aspect, in the multi-component cup system according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, the first and second orifices direct the output to a single delivery point. In a twelfth aspect, the multi-component cup system according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects may further include: a solenoid communicatively attached in series with the first and second reagent reservoirs and the mixing conduit; wherein the solenoid is configured to regulate the volume of reagent delivered to the mixing conduit. In a thirteenth aspect, in the multi-component cup system according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects: the first and second orifices include through-holes of different sizes relative to each other; and the different sized through-holes of the first and second orifices allow reagents to flow differentially into the mixing conduit.

[0071] In addition to the foregoing, the fourteenth aspect of this disclosure includes a method of applying a multi-component coating, the method comprising: adding a quantity of a first reagent to a first reagent reservoir in a multi-component cup, wherein the first reservoir is coupled to a first control orifice to which the coating is to be applied, wherein the first control orifice provides a volumetric flow rate; adding a quantity of a second reagent to a second reagent reservoir in the multi-component cup, wherein the second reservoir is coupled to a second control orifice to which the coating is to be applied, wherein the second control orifice provides a volumetric flow rate; activating a pressure supply source, wherein activation causes the pressure supply source to supply pressurized gas to a lower nozzle of each of the first and second reagent reservoirs; and using the pressurized gas to drive a piston in the first reagent reservoir and a piston in the second reagent reservoir to pump a corresponding reagent outward to a corresponding first or second control orifice; wherein the first and second orifices cause different quantities of the first reagent and the second reagent to mix to form a reagent mixture consistent with a predetermined mixing ratio.

[0072] In a fifteenth aspect, in the method according to the fourteenth aspect, activation of the pressure supply source causes the first and second reagents to flow into the mixing conduit. In a sixteenth aspect, in the method according to any one of the fourteenth to sixteenth aspects, the mixing conduit further includes a static mixer. In a seventeenth aspect, in the method according to any one of the fourteenth to sixteenth aspects: the mixing conduit is communicatively connected to an optional reservoir including a mixture reservoir; and the optional reservoir is communicatively connected to the coating applicator such that, upon activation of the pressure supply source, the reagent mixture flows from the mixture reservoir into the coating applicator. In an eighteenth aspect, the method according to any one of the fourteenth to seventeenth aspects may further include: passing the first and second reagents through a switch; wherein the switch supplies the first and second reagents to the mixing conduit in response to a relative volume of reagent mixture in the mixture reservoir. In a nineteenth aspect, in the method according to any one of the fourteenth to eighteenth aspects, the switch is controlled by a solenoid electronically coupled to the coating applicator.

[0073] In addition to the above, a twentieth aspect of a multi-component cup system for on-demand containment and mixing of multiple coating reagents may include: a first reagent reservoir having a first volume connected to a first orifice, the first reservoir being configured to contain a reactive coating reagent, wherein the reactive coating reagent includes a crosslinking agent or a catalyst; a second reagent reservoir having a second volume connected to a second orifice different from the first orifice, the second reservoir being configured to contain a polymer reagent separately from the first reservoir; a conduit assembly having a first control orifice and a second control orifice, each of the first or second control orifice being communicatively connected to each of the first and second reagent reservoirs, wherein each control orifice has a through-hole size optimized for the mixing ratio of the reagents in the first and second reservoirs; and a static mixer; wherein the first and second reagent reservoirs, the static mixer, and the conduit assembly are configured in place to enable (i) pressurized reagent delivery to a coating applicator, or (ii) gravity reagent delivery to the coating applicator.

[0074] This disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described examples should be considered in all respects as illustrative rather than restrictive. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims are to be covered by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A multi-component cup system for on-demand containment and mixing of multiple coating reagents, comprising: A first reagent reservoir having a first volume, the first reagent reservoir being connected to a first orifice, the first reservoir being configured to contain a reactive coating reagent, wherein the reactive coating reagent includes a crosslinking agent or a catalyst; A second reagent reservoir having a second volume, the second reagent reservoir being connected to a second orifice different from the first orifice, the second reservoir being configured to contain polymer reagents separately from the first reservoir; A first control port and a second control port, each of the first or second control ports being communicatively connected to each of the first and second reagent reservoirs, wherein each control port has a through-hole size optimized for the mixing ratio of the reagents in the first and second reservoirs; mixer; as well as Multiple pistons, when activated, drive the reagents in the first and second reservoirs to the mixer, thereby producing a mixed coating composition of the first and second reagents.

2. The multi-component cup system according to claim 1, further comprising: A mixing conduit for accommodating the mixer, the mixing conduit being configured to receive reagents from the first and second reservoirs.

3. The multi-component cup system according to claim 2, wherein: The mixer is a static mixer; and The movement of the reagents from the first and second reservoirs around the mixer causes the reagents to mix together.

4. The multi-component cup system according to any one of claims 2 or 3, further comprising: An optional reservoir communicatively coupled to the hybrid conduit.

5. The multi-component cup system according to claim 4, wherein: The optional reservoir is used as a mixture reservoir, and stores the reagents of the first and second reservoirs in a mixed form; and The optional reservoir provides the reagent in the mixed form directly to the coating applicator as needed.

6. The multi-component cup system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: Close the lids of at least the first and second reservoirs; The lids seal the first and second coating reagents to prevent them from mixing together in the first and second reservoirs.

7. The multi-component cup system of claim 6, wherein the lid further covers an optional reservoir of the multi-component cup system.

8. The multi-component cup system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: The lower nozzle interface is coupled to each of the first and second reagent reservoirs; Each of the lower nozzle interfaces couples a pressure supply source to a corresponding piston located in the reservoir.

9. The multi-component cup system according to claim 8, wherein: Each lower nozzle interface includes an internal cavity for receiving a reagent container.

10. The multi-component cup system according to claim 9, wherein: The reagent container includes the piston; and Activation of the pressure supply source causes pressurized air to flow through the lower nozzle interface to drive the corresponding piston within the reagent container.

11. The multi-component cup system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second orifices guide the output to a single delivery point.

12. The multi-component cup system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: A solenoid communicatively connected in series with the first and second reagent reservoirs and the mixing conduit; The solenoid is configured to regulate the volume of reagent delivered to the mixing conduit.

13. The multi-component cup system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first and second orifices include through holes of different sizes relative to each other; and The different sizes of the first and second orifices allow reagents to flow into the mixing conduit in a differentiated manner.

14. A method for applying a multi-component coating, comprising: A certain amount of the first reagent is added to the first reagent reservoir of the multi-component cup, wherein the first reservoir is coupled to a first control orifice to be applied to the first reagent reservoir, wherein the first control orifice provides a volumetric flow rate; A certain amount of the second reagent is added to the second reagent reservoir of the multi-component cup, wherein the second reservoir is coupled to a second control orifice to be applied to the second reagent reservoir, wherein the second control orifice provides a volumetric flow rate; Activate the pressure supply source, wherein activation causes the pressure supply source to supply pressurized gas to the lower nozzle of each of the first and second reagent reservoirs; as well as The pressurized gas drives the piston in the first reagent reservoir and the piston in the second reagent reservoir to pump the corresponding reagent outward to the corresponding first or second control port. The first and second orifices cause different amounts of the first reagent to be mixed with the second reagent to form a reagent mixture consistent with a predetermined mixing ratio.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein activating the pressure supply source causes the first and second reagents to flow into the mixing conduit.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the mixing conduit further comprises a static mixer.

17. The method according to any one of claims 15 or 16, wherein: The mixing conduit is communicatively connected to an optional reservoir including a mixing reservoir; and The optional reservoir is communicatively connected to the coating applicator, such that when the pressure supply source is activated, the reagent mixture flows from the mixture reservoir into the coating applicator.

18. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 17, further comprising: Pass the first and second reagents through the switch; The switch supplies the first and second reagents to the mixing conduit in response to the relative volumes of the reagent mixture in the mixing reservoir.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the switch is controlled by a solenoid electronically coupled to the coating applicator.

20. A multi-component cup system for on-demand containment and mixing of multiple coating reagents, comprising: A first reagent reservoir having a first volume, the first reagent reservoir being connected to a first orifice, the first reservoir being configured to contain a reactive coating reagent, wherein the reactive coating reagent includes a crosslinking agent or a catalyst; A second reagent reservoir having a second volume, the second reagent reservoir being connected to a second orifice different from the first orifice, the second reservoir being configured to contain polymer reagents separately from the first reservoir; A conduit assembly having a first control port and a second control port, each of the first or second control port being communicatively connected to each of the first and second reagent reservoirs, wherein each control port has a through-hole size optimized for the mixing ratio of the reagents in the first and second reservoirs; and Static mixer; The first and second reagent reservoirs, the static mixer, and the conduit assembly are configured in a position to enable (i) pressurized reagent delivery to the coating applicator, or (ii) gravity reagent delivery to the coating applicator.

Images