Cartridge assembly and method of assembling a cartridge assembly

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cartridge assembly and to a method of assembling a cartridge assembly, such a cartridge assembly may comprise first and second cartridges for storing first and second materials; a head part arranged at a first outlet of the first cartridge, the head part forming at least a part of an outlet arrangement of the cartridge assembly; the outlet arrangement; a plug element arranged at a second outlet of the second cartridge and closing the second outlet of the second cartridge in a storage state, the plug element being configured to be introduced into the head part and to cooperate with a closure of the outlet arrangement, the closure being removable from and attachable to the first and second outlets of the first and second cartridges, wherein the plug element is removed from the second outlet on removal of said closure from the cartridge assembly and is insertable into said second outlet on replacement of the closure at the cartridge assembly.

Description

[0001] Cartridge assembly and method of assembling a cartridge assembly

[0002] The present invention relates to a cartridge assembly and to a method of assembling a cartridge assembly.

[0003] Dispensing systems exists in a multitude of forms that can be used in a plethora of applications ranging from dental applications, medical applications, veterinary applications to industrial applications and the like.

[0004] The dispensing systems typically have an outlet that can be connected to a cartridge in order to guide material stored in the cartridge to a point of application via the outlet. If two-component materials, such as adhesives, paints, molding materials, impression materials and the like are to be dispensed, the dispensing system comprises two cartridges one for each component of material to be dispensed.

[0005] Two component cartridges are know in a plethora of designs and are generally provided to store two materials that are to be mixed with one another to form a 2K material following dispensing from the cartridge.

[0006] Systems exist in which the two cartridges of a 2K system can be exchanged and connected to one another. However, these systems are frequently arduous to connect and the connection is not particularly effective.

[0007] For this reason it is an object of the present invention to provide a simple to use 2K cartridge assembly that can be connected to one another in an improved manner. It is a further object of the invention to make available a simple and cost effective method of manufacture of such a cartridge assembly.

[0008] This object is achieved by a cartridge assembly in accordance with the respective independent claim. Such a cartridge assembly comprises: first and second cartridges for storing first and second materials; a head part arranged at a first outlet of the first cartridge, the head part forming at least a part of an outlet arrangement of the cartridge assembly; the outlet arrangement; a plug element arranged at a second outlet of the second cartridge and closing the second outlet of the second cartridge in a storage state, the plug element being configured to be introduced into the head part and to cooperate with a closure of the outlet arrangement, the closure being removable from and attachable to the first and second outlets of the first and second cartridges, wherein the plug element is removed from the second outlet after removal of said closure from the cartridge assembly and is insertable into said second outlet prior to replacement of the closure at the cartridge assembly.

[0009] The outlet arrangement may comprise a receptacle configured to receive a front end of the plug element. In this way an as compact a design as possible can be achieved.

[0010] The receptacle may be a rectangular shaped or an at least generally rectangular shaped receptacle. In this way a coded alignment can be ensured permitting the placement of the plug element in discrete orientations only at the head part.

[0011] The outlet arrangement may further comprise a snap element. The snap element may be deflected following introduction of the plug element into the head part of the outlet arrangement. The snap element may comprise one or more windows. Such windows are simple components and reliable in use.

[0012] The second outlet comprises one or more noses and wherein the one or more noses respectively engage one of the one or more windows. Noses are simple to manufacture complementary shaped parts to such windows. The noses may be arranged at an outer surface of the second outlet. In this way the cartridge assembly can be assembled in a quick and efficient manner.

[0013] The noses may project radially outwardly from said second outlet. In this way the cartridge assembly can be assembled in a quick and efficient manner.

[0014] The one or more windows may be formed in a wall of said receptacle. In this way the cartridge assembly can be assembled in a quick and efficient manner.

[0015] The windows may be formed in a second end of the receptacle. In this way the complementary shaped parts of the snap element are arranged at positions that allow a more simple manufacture of these locking members.

[0016] A part of the second outlet may project beyond a first end of the receptacle. In this way an outlet opening of the second outlet can be more easily accessed.

[0017] The second outlet may be introduced into the receptacle on introducing the plug element into the head part. In this way the cartridge assembly can be assembled and manufactured in a quick and efficient manner.

[0018] The second outlet may be introduced into the receptacle via a second end of the receptacle. In this way the cartridge assembly can be assembled in a quick and efficient manner.

[0019] The outlet arrangement may comprise a connector configured for releasable attachment of the closure to the head part. In this way the cartridge assembly can be closed off after use and intermittently be stored before subsequent use.

[0020] Moreover, the same connector can be used to e.g. connect an accessory, such as a mixing tip, to the cartridge assembly.

[0021] The second outlet may comprise a part of the connector. The second outlet may comprise said part of the connector on an outer surface thereof. The provision of said part at the outer surface means that this can be more readily manufactured, e.g. in an injection molding process.

[0022] The connector may be a bayonet mount. Such types of connectors are simple to manufacture, simple to use and allow a quick and secure attachment of a closure to the cartridge assembly.

[0023] The part of the connector is a rib of said bayonet mount and especially may complement the bayonet mount such that it is only complete once the second outlet is introduced into the head part. Having a bayonet mount also at the side of the outlet arrangement where the second outlet is present ensures an improved locking of the closure to the outlet arrangement.

[0024] Such a cartridge assembly may comprise first and second cartridges for storing first and second materials; a head part arranged at a first outlet of the first cartridge, the head part forming at least a part of an outlet arrangement of the cartridge assembly; the outlet arrangement; a plug element arranged at a second outlet of the second cartridge and closing the second outlet of the second cartridge in a storage state, the plug element being configured to be introduced into the head part and to cooperate with a closure of the outlet arrangement, the closure being removable from and attachable to the first and second outlets of the first and second cartridges, wherein the plug element is removed from the second outlet on removal of said closure from the cartridge assembly and is insertable into said second outlet on replacement of the closure at the cartridge assembly.

[0025] Such a cartridge assembly is simple to use, as on assembly of the cartridge assembly the outlet of the second cartridge is simply inserted into the head part and the plug element can thereby be connected to the closure, such that the cartridges can be connected to one another in an improved manner. The production of such a cartridge assembly can be carried out in a simple and cost effective manner, e.g. in an injection molding process or using additive manufacturing techniques.

[0026] In this connection it should be noted that the head part is typically referred to that part of the cartridge comprising the outlet, with the head part being part of the outlet arrangement that can be connected to dispensing outlets such as static mixers respectively dynamic mixers and that may be shaped complementary a dispenser for use with the cartridge assembly.

[0027] In this connection it should be noted that such a plug element can be used to seal the second outlet of the second cartridge, i.e. it is plugged into the second outlet and in turn also acts as an element that is plugged into the head part respectively the closure.

[0028] In this connection it should further be noted that the closure is typically a component that is used to close the cartridge assembly after use of the cartridge assembly.

[0029] A respective end of the first and second cartridges remote from the first and second outlets of the first and second cartridges may comprise connection means, with the connection means being configured to be connected to one another. In this way the first and second cartridges can be connected one to another at the end remote from the head part.

[0030] The connection means may be formed by one or more tongue and groove connections. Such tongue and groove connections are simple to use and facilitate a simple assembly of the cartridge assembly.

[0031] The outlet arrangement may comprise a receptacle, in particular a truncated cone shaped receptacle, configured to receive and hold a front end of the plug element. Such a receptacle can be used in a simple way to receive and store the plug element. The receptacle may be a truncated cone shaped receptacle. Such a shape is shape stable and simple to manufacture from plastic.

[0032] The plug element may be configured to be connected to the closure via a plug connector. Such a plug connector can simply be plugged into the closure.

[0033] The plug element may comprise a circumferentially extending lip as the plug connector. Such a lip is simple to produce and can be snap-fit into place at the receptacle, e.g. by passing through an opening in the receptacle and then engaging a rim of the receptacle.

[0034] The plug connector, i.e. the circumferentially extending lip, may have a triangular shape in a section thereof taken in parallel to a longitudinal axis of the plug element. Such a shape facilitates the insertion into the opening and the abutment against the rim of the receptacle.

[0035] The plug element may cooperate with the closure via a snap-fit connection. Such a snap-fit connection is simple to use and stable in use. The snap-fit connection may comprise the plug connector. The snap-fit connection may further comprise the receptacle. In this way the snap-fit connection is formed between the receptacle and the plug element.

[0036] The plug element may further comprise a snap element. Such a snap element can beneficially be used to connect the plug element to the closure and to enable a disengagement of the plug element from the second outlet.

[0037] The snap element may be deflected following introduction of the plug element into the head part of the outlet arrangement. Such a deflection enables the plug element to be disengaged, e.g. from an outer surface of the second outlet. Such a deflection can comprise a rotation or a radially outward deformation of a part of the snap element. The snap element may comprise two limbs connected to a base. Such limbs can be deflected on insertion of the plug element into the closure.

[0038] The base may extend radially outward from a body of the plug element. Such a body can be formed e.g. as a tubular body, i.e. a component having a cylindrical shape.

[0039] The snap element may further comprise one or more windows. Such windows can be used to attach the snap element to the outlet in a simple manner.

[0040] The second outlet may comprise one or more noses and wherein the one or more windows respectively engage one of one or more of said noses. In such a way the plug element can be connected to the outlet in a facile manner.

[0041] The snap element may be deflected by means of a rotation on inserting the plug element into the head part. Following rotation of the plug element relative to the second outlet the engagement at an outer surface of the second outlet between the plug element and the second outlet can be released.

[0042] The snap element may be deflected radially outwardly at a deflection structure present in one of the head part and the outlet arrangement. By means of such a deflection, i.e. deformation of part of the snap element, the engagement at the outer surface of the second outlet between the plug element and the second outlet can be released.

[0043] The plug element may comprise one of an abutment surface and a thread. Such structures can beneficially be used to deflect the plug element and thereby release the engagement between the plug element and the outer surface of the outlet.

[0044] A respective one of the limbs may comprise a respective one of the windows. In this way an as compact as possible design of plug element can be brought about. The receptacle may comprise one or more elongate slots. Such elongate slots facilitate the introduction of the plug element into the receptacle.

[0045] The plug element may comprises alignment means configured to align the plug element relative to the second outlet on insertion into the second outlet. Such an alignment means ensure proper placement of the plug element into the second outlet.

[0046] The alignment means may comprise splines extending in parallel to a longitudinal axis of the cartridge assembly. Such splines can beneficially be used to guide the plug element into the second outlet especially if the splines are additionally configured to cooperate with correspondingly shaped grooves formed in the second outlet.

[0047] The first and second cartridges may be filled with first and second materials. The multi-component material is, for example, a two-component adhesive comprising a filler material and a hardener. In order to obtain the best possible mixing result, e.g. an adhesive having the desired bond strength, the multi-component material has to be thoroughly mixed.

[0048] According to a further aspect the present further relates to a method of assembling a cartridge assembly, optionally the cartridge assembly as described in the foregoing, the method comprising the steps of:

[0049] - inserting a plug element attached to a second outlet of a second cartridge into a head part attached to a first outlet of a first cartridge; and attaching said plug element to an outlet arrangement comprising said head part.

[0050] By way of example, the plug element can be guided through an opening of the head part prior to coming into contact with the receptacle of the closure of the outlet arrangement. The plug element may be snap-fit into place at the receptacle of the closure. Further embodiments of the invention are described in the following description of the Figures. The invention will be explained in the following in detail by means of embodiments and with reference to the drawing in which is shown:

[0051] Fig. 1 a & b a first kind of cartridge assembly after and before assembly;

[0052] Fig. 2a to 2d views showing various stages of assembly of the cartridge assembly of Fig. 1 ;

[0053] Fig. 3a to 3d views like Fig. 2 of a second kind of cartridge assembly before and after assembly;

[0054] Fig. 4 & b a third kind of cartridge assembly after and before assembly;

[0055] Fig. 5a to 5d views showing various stages of assembly of the cartridge assembly of Fig. 4;

[0056] Fig. 6a to 6d views like Fig. 4 of a fourth kind of cartridge assembly before and after assembly;

[0057] Fig. 7a to 7c views of a fourth kind of cartridge assembly, before during and after assembly;

[0058] Fig. 8 a sectional view of the assembled cartridge assembly of Fig. 7;

[0059] Fig. 9 a sectional view of a cartridge of the cartridge assembly;.

[0060] Figs. 10a & b views of the assembled cartridge assembly of Fig. 7;

[0061] Fig. 11 a view of a bayonet type of connector of the cartridge assembly of Fig. 7;

[0062] Fig. 12a &b views of snap fit connections present at the cartridge assembly of Fig. 7; and

[0063] Figs. 13a to c views of connected parts of the cartridge assembly of Fig. 7.

[0064] Fig. 1a shows a cartridge assembly 10 prior to assembly. The cartridge assembly 10 comprises first and second cartridges 12, 14 for storing first and second materials M, M’. The cartridge assembly 10 further comprises a head part 16 arranged at a first outlet 18 of the first cartridge 12. The head part 16 forms a part of an outlet arrangement 20 of the cartridge assembly 10.

[0065] In this connection it should be noted that the outlet arrangement 20 comprises a second outlet 24 of the second cartridge 14, a plug element 22 arranged at a second outlet 24 of the second cartridge 14, a closure 26 for closing and opening the assembled cartridge assembly 10 and a cap 90 attached to the head part 16.

[0066] The plug element 22 is configured to close the second outlet 24 of the second cartridge 14 in a storage state and to be removed from the second outlet 24 on opening the cartridge assembly 10 in a state of use of the cartridge assembly 10 for dispensing.

[0067] The plug element 22 is configured to be introduced into the head part 16 and to cooperate with the closure 26 of the outlet arrangement 20 once the plug element 22 has been introduced into the outlet arrangement 20.

[0068] For this purpose the plug element 22 is inserted into an opening 84 of the head part 16 and is guided through the head part 16 until it engages the closure 26 of the outlet arrangement 20, as shown e.g. in Fig. 2c.

[0069] The opening 84 is shaped complementary in shape and size to at least a part of the plug element 22. The reason for this is that the opening 84 of the head part 16 is configured to guide and align the plug element 22, i.e. the second cartridge 24 on introducing the plug element 22 into the outlet arrangement 20 for a correct fitting of the second cartridge 24 to the first cartridge 18.

[0070] In the present example, the opening 84 has an approximately square shape with rounded edges. Similarly an outer part of the plug element 22 likewise has an at least approximately square shape with rounded edges of similar radius.

[0071] In this connection it should be noted that a shape of the opening 84 and / or of the said part of the plug element 22 can be selected from the group of members comprising: at least approximately square, square, at least approximately rectangular, rectangular, at least approximately triangular, triangular, at least approximately polygonal, polygonal, at least approximately oval, and oval. The closure 26 is removable from and attachable to the first and second outlets 18, 24 of the first and second cartridges 12, 14. The plug element 22 is attached and secured to the closure 26 in such a way that the plug element 22 is removed from the second outlet 18 on removal of said closure 26 from the cartridge assembly 10 and is insertable into again and attachable to said second outlet 18 on replacement of the closure 26 at the cartridge assembly 10.

[0072] The plug element 22 further comprises a snap element 48 at an end opposite from a front end 40 thereof. The snap element 48 is configured to hold the plug element at an outer surface 86 of the second outlet 24 prior to the introduction of the plug element 22 into the closure 26.

[0073] A respective end 28, 30 of the first and second cartridges 12, 14 remote from the first and second outlets 18, 24 of the first and second cartridges 12, 14 comprises connection means 32. The connection means are configured to connect the first and second cartridges 12, 14 one to another.

[0074] The connection means 32 are formed by one or more tongue and groove 34, 36 connections. In the example shown in Fig. 1a and 1 b, a pair of tongues and grooves 34, 36 are provided. The tongues 34 can be formed of cylindrical shape which are then inserted into complementary round shaped grooves 36 as indicated. Alternatively also other shapes can be selected that facilitate a connection between the first and second cartridges 12, 14, as e.g. indicated in Fig. 4a and 4b.

[0075] In this connection it should be noted that the grooves 36 can also be formed on the second cartridge 124 and the tongues 34 can be provided at the first cartridge 12.

[0076] As further indicated in Figs. 1a and 1b, the tongue 34 and groove 36 connection may further comprise an axial abutment 98. This axial abutment 98 may be snap-fit into place on the joining of the first and second cartridges 12, 14 and thereby prevent an axial movement along a longitudinal axis A of the second cartridge 14 away from the head part 16.

[0077] At the other end of the second cartridge 14, the second outlet 24 is formed at least in part complementary to the head part 16 and is axially abuted against the head part 16 so as to prevent an axial movement of the second cartridge 14 beyond the head part 16.

[0078] In this connection it should further be noted that a length of each tongue 34 can be selected in the range of 5 % of a length of one of the first and second cartridges 12, 14 to 20% of a length of one of the cartridges 12, 14.

[0079] Similarly a length of each groove 36 is generally selected complementary to a length of each tongue 34, i.e. a that a length of each groove 36 can be selected in the range of 5 % of a length of one of the first and second cartridges 12, 14 to 20% of a length of one of the cartridges 12, 14.

[0080] Fig. 1 b shows the cartridge assembly 10 once the first and second cartridges 12, 14 have been connected to one another. In this state the first and second cartridges are connected to one another via the tongue and groove 34, 36 connection and the plug element 22 is connected to the closure 26.

[0081] Fig. 2a to 2d show various views showing various stages of assembly of the cartridge assembly 10 of Fig. 1.

[0082] Fig. 2a shows a perspective view similar to Fig. 1 a prior to insertion of the plug element 22 of the second cartridge 14 into the head part 16. The head part comprises an outer thread 88 on an outer surface thereof via which the cap 90 can be connected to the head part 16 in order to secure the closure 26 to the outlet arrangement 20 in the storage state. In this connection it should be noted that the cap could also be attached using different connection means, such as a bayonet type of connection or the like.

[0083] A receptacle 38 is arranged at the closure 26. The receptacle comprises two slots 72 at opposite sides thereof an opening 80 and a rim 82 surrounding the opening. The plug element 22 is configured to be inserted into the receptacle 38 and to have a front end 40 thereof guided through the opening 80 and to then have the front end 40 secured to the receptacle at the rim 82.

[0084] The receptacle 38 can be of truncated cone shape as indicated in the Figures.

[0085] This facilitates the function of the receptacle 38 of receiving and holding the front end 40 of the plug element 22. On insertion of the plug element into the receptacle the slots 72 permit a certain radial flex of the receptacle to allow a passage of the front end 40 through the opening 80.

[0086] The plug element 22 is configured to be connected to the closure 26 via a plug connector 42. In the examples shown the plug element 22 comprises a circumferentially extending lip 44 as the plug connector 42.

[0087] The plug connector 42, i.e. the circumferentially extending lip 44, has a triangular shape in a section thereof taken in parallel to a longitudinal axis A of the plug element 22.

[0088] This means that an outer surface of the front end 40 forming the plug connector is inclined relative to a longitudinal axis A such that it tapers outwardly from the opening 80 towards a rear facing surface 92. This inclined surface permits simple transition of the front end 40 through the opening 80, whereas the radially outwardly projecting rear facing surface 92 sits on the rim preventing passage of the front end 40 back through the opening 80.

[0089] Thereby a snap-fit connection 46 is formed between the plug element 22 and the the closure 26. In the present example the snap-fit connection is formed between the plug connector 42 and the receptacle 38. Fig. 2b shows a side view of the cartridge assembly of Fig. 2a prior to the assembly of the cartridge assembly 10, i.e. prior to introducing the plug element 22 into the opening 84 of the head part 16 and prior to connecting the plug element 22 to the closure 26.

[0090] Fig. 2c shows the same perspective as Fig. 2b following the snap fitting of the plug element 22 into place at the closure 26. The snap element 48 comprises two limbs 50 connected to a base 60. The base 60 extends radially outward from a body 78 of the plug element 22. In order to accommodate the snap element 48, the head part comprises a reservoir 54 (see Fig. 2b). This reservoir may comprise a conical surface 56 in the head part 16.

[0091] On inserting the plug element 22 into the head part 16, the plug element 22 enters the reservoir 54 and comes into contact with an abutment surface 58 at a front end of the reservoir. This causes the base 60 to deform bringing about a radially outward deflection of the limbs 50.

[0092] The limbs 50 comprise abutments 52 that are configured to engage a truncated stopper 62 of the second outlet 24 in the storage state of the second cartridge 14. On the radially outwardly directed deflection of the limbs 50 these abutments 62 disengage from the stopper 62 permitting removal of the plug element 22 from the second outlet 24.

[0093] Fig. 2c now shows the radial deflection of the limbs 50 and the disengagement of the snap element 48 from the stopper 62.

[0094] Fig. 2d shows a further side view rotated by 90° relative to Fig. 2c. This Figure indicates how the plug element 22 is connected to the receptacle 38 of the closure 26. On removal of the closure 26, both the first and second outlets 18, 24 are opened and a plug 76 of the plug element 22 can be removed from the second outlet 24 and a plug 94 can be removed from the first outlet 18. Fig. 3a to 3d views like Fig. 2 of a second kind of cartridge assembly 10 before and after assembly.

[0095] As indicated in Fig. 3b, the reservoir comprises an inner thread 68. This thread 68 entrains the plug element 22 bringing about a rotation of the plug element 22 about the longitudinal axis A of the second outlet 24. Thereby a respective window 64 of each of the limbs 50 of the snap element 48 is disengaged from a respective nose 66 (see Fig. 3a) so that the plug element 22 is released from the outer surface 86 of the second outlet for removal of the plug element 22 from the second outlet 24 on removal of the closure 26.

[0096] The front end 40 of the plug element 22 engages the receptacle in a similar way to the previous example.

[0097] Fig. 3c shows how the plug element 22 has been rotated relative to the second outlet 24 in comparison to Fig. 3b.

[0098] Fig. 3d shows that the rotation of the plug element 22 was effected by 90°.

[0099] In this connection also other amounts of rotation can be achieved, e.g. a relative rotation of the plug element 22 to the second outlet 24 on insertion of the plug element 22 into the head part can be selected in the range of 30° to 180°.

[0100] Fig. 4 & b show a third kind of cartridge assembly 10 before and after assembly.

[0101] The difference to the cartridge assembly 10 shown in Fig. 2 is the type of closure 26 used as well as the type of tongue 34 and groove 36 connection.

[0102] The closure 26 comprises two arms 70 that can be deflected about a base 74 of the closure 26 on opening the closure 26. In the storage state the two arms 70 engage into a recess 96 of the head part 16. The two arms 70 can be deflected radially outwardly in order to disengage from the recess 96. On inserting the closure 26 back into the outlets 18, 24, the arms 70 can be deflected back into the recess 96. Fig. 5b shows how this engagement takes place. As indicated in Fig. 5d, the receptacle 38 is formed at the base 74 of the closure 26.

[0103] The tongue 34 and groove 36 connection is formed by a T-shaped tongue 34 engaging two complementary shaped grooves 36 as indicted in Fig. 4b.

[0104] Fig. 5a to 5d views showing various stages of assembly of the cartridge assembly of Fig. 4. The plug element 22 is formed similar to the plug element 22 shown in Fig. 2, with the closure 26 being formed like the closure 26 shown in Fig. 5.

[0105] Not indicated is the tongue 34 and groove 36 connection, as this can be formed as indicated in Fig. 1 respectively as shown in Fig. 4.

[0106] Fig. 6a to 6d views like Fig. 4 of a fourth kind of cartridge assembly before and after assembly. The plug element 22 is formed similar to the plug element 22 shown in Fig. 3, with the closure 26 being formed like the closure 26 shown in Fig. 5.

[0107] Not indicated is the tongue 34 and groove 36 connection, as this can be formed as indicated in Fig. 1 respectively as shown in Fig. 4.

[0108] The snap element 48 of the plug element 22 is configured to engage the outer surface 86 of the second outlet 24 in a storage state thereof, with the the snap element 48 being deflected relative to the second outlet 24 following introduction of the plug element 22 into the head part 16 of the outlet arrangement 20.

[0109] The snap element 48 may be deflected by means of a rotation on inserting the plug element 22 into the head part 16 (see e.g. Figs. 3 and 6) or at a deflection structure present in one of the head part 16 and the outlet arrangement 20 (see e.g. Figs. 2 and 5).

[0110] On assembling the cartridge assembly 10, the plug element 22 attached to the second outlet 24 of the second cartridge 14 is introduced into the head part 16 attached to the first outlet 14 of the first cartridge 12. On introduction into the head part 16 and / or into the closure 26 the plug element 22 is deflected to disengage from the outer surface 86 of the second outlet via the snap element and is snapped into place at the closure 26.

[0111] The multi-component material M, M’ is, for example, a two-component adhesive comprising a filler material and a hardener. In order to obtain the best possible mixing result, e.g. an adhesive having the desired bond strength, the multicomponent material M, M’ has to be thoroughly mixed.

[0112] The first and second cartridges 12, 14 can thus be filled with materials M, M’ selected from the group of members consisting of topical medications, medical fluids, wound care fluids, cosmetic and / or skin care preparations, dental fluids, veterinary fluids, adhesive fluids, disinfectant fluids, protective fluids, paints and combinations of the foregoing.

[0113] Such materials M, M’ and hence the cartridge assembly 10 can therefore be expediently used in the treatment of target areas such as the nose (e.g. anti- histaminic creams etc.), ears, teeth (e.g. molds for implants or buccal applications (e.g. aphtas, gum treatment, mouth sores etc.), eyes (e.g. the precise deposition of drugs on eyelids (e.g. chalazion, infection, anti-inflammatory, antibiotics etc.), lips (e.g. herpes), mouth, skin (e.g. anti-fungal, dark spot, acne, warts, psoriasis, skin cancer treatment, tattoo removal drugs, wound healing, scar treatment, stain removal, anti-itch applications etc.), other dermatological applications (e.g. skin nails (for example anti-fungal applications, or strengthening formulas etc.) or cytological applications.

[0114] Alternatively the materials M, M’ and hence the cartridge assembly 10 can also be used in an industrial sector both for the production of products as well as for the repair and maintenance of existing products, e.g. in the building industry, the automotive industry, the aerospace industry, in the energy sector, e.g. for windturbines, etc. The cartridge assembly 10 can, for example, be used for the dispensing of construction material, sealants, bonding material, adhesives, paints, coatings and / or protective coatings.

[0115] Fig. 7a to 7c views of a fourth kind of cartridge assembly, before during and after assembly. The cartridge assembly 10 also comprises first and second cartridges 12, 14 for storing first and second materials M, M’. The plug element 100 is also arranged at the second outlet 24 of the second cartridge 14 and closes the second outlet 24 of the second cartridge 14 in a storage state thereof. The plug element 100 is configured to be introduced into the head part 16 and to cooperate with the closure 26 of the outlet arrangement 20. The closure 26 is removable from and attachable to the first and second outlets 18, 24 of the first and second cartridges 12, 14. In contrast to the previous cartridge assemblies, the plug element 100 is removed from the second outlet 18 after removal of said closure 26 from the cartridge assembly 10 and is insertable into said second outlet 18 only prior to replacement of the closure 26 at the cartridge assembly 10, i.e. cannot be introduced while the closure 26 is arranged at the cartridge assembly 10.

[0116] As can be seen in the sectional drawing of Fig. 8, the outlet arrangement 20 comprises a receptacle 102 configured to receive a front end 40 of the plug element 100. The receptacle 38 is an at least generally rectangular shaped receptacle 102.

[0117] An outer surface 104 of the second outlet 24 comprises the noses 66 engaging the windows 64 of the receptacle 102 as well as projection 138 engaging apertures 134 of the plug element 100 to form a further snap fit connection between the second outlet 24 and the plug element 100

[0118] Fig. 9 shows a sectional view of the second cartridge 14 of the cartridge assembly 10 of Fig. 7. The plug element 100 comprises a top end 130 and wings 132 projecting from and extending in parallel to a body 133 of the plug element 100. A plug 136 of the plug element projects from between the wings 132 and bexond the wings at an end 131 of the plug element disposed opposite to the top end. The wings 132 comprise the apertures 134 which cooperate with the projections 138 present at the outer surface of the second outlet 24.

[0119] Figs. 10a & 10b show views of the assembled cartridge assembly 10 of Fig. 7. A plug 124 for the first outlet 18 can be seen that can be inserted and removed from the first outlet 18 together with the closure 26. The plug 124 can either be removable from the closure or integral therewith, i.e. can or cannot be removed from the closure 26.

[0120] The plug 124 comprises a base plate 126 having an aperture through which at least a part of the plug element 100 can be guided on attaching the first cartridge 12 to the second cartridge 14. Following assembly the top end 130 projects through the aperture 128.

[0121] On assembling the cartridge assembly 10, the second cartridge 14 is connected to the first cartridge following which the closure 26 is locked to the head part. In the present example, the closure 26 comprises an elongate hole through which a part of the plug 124 passes. The elongate hole 142 is configured to receive a part of the plug 124. Once the closure 26 is rotated relative to the plug 124 and the head part 16, the elongate hole is rotated such that the plug 124 cannot be removed from the elongate hole 142 and hence the closure (see also Figs. 7a to 7c in this regard).

[0122] Fig. 11 shows the connector 110 present at the head part for connection to the closure 26. In the present example the connector is a Bayonet type of connector having two bayonet mounts 114 present at the head part 16 that are configured to cooperate with corresponding features present in the closure 26.

[0123] A part 112 of the bayonet mount 114 is formed at the second outlet 24 and the bayonet mount 114 is only complete and only ensures a secure locking of the closure 26 to the head part 16 once the second outlet is attached to the head part. The part 112 of the connector 100 is a rib 116 of said bayonet mount 114. In order to do this the outlet arrangement 20 further comprises a snap element 48 formed by the cooperating windows 64 and noses 66. Two such pairs of noses and cooperating windows 64 are arranged at the outer surface 104 of the second outlet 24.

[0124] The snap element 48 is deflected following introduction of the plug element 100 into the head part 16 of the outlet arrangement 20. The noses 66 project radially outwardly from said second outlet 24 and into the windows 64 present at the head part 16.

[0125] The one or more windows 64 are formed in a wall of said receptacle 102 present at the head part 16. The windows 64 are formed in a second end of the receptacle 102.

[0126] Fig. 12a &b show views of snap fit connections 48 and 140 present at the cartridge assembly 10 of Fig. 7. The one snap fit connection 140 is present between the second outlet 24 and the plug element 100 (see Fig. 12a). The second snap fit connection is present between the second outlet 24 and the head part 16.

[0127] Figs. 13a to 13c show views of connected parts of the cartridge assembly of Fig. 7. As is evidently visible the plug element 22 shown in Fig. 13a comprises alignment means 118 configured to align the plug element 102 relative to the second outlet 24 on insertion into the second outlet 24.

[0128] The alignment means 118 comprise splines 120 extending in parallel to a longitudinal axis A of the cartridge assembly 10. As further shown in Fig. 13b the splines 120 cooperate with correspondingly shaped grooves 122 formed in the second outlet 24.

[0129] As an be seen in the part sectional drawing of Fig. 13c, the alignment means 118 ensure that the plug element 102 can only be placed into the second outlet at a few discrete orientations. Such alignment means 118 can also be provided at the cartridge assemblies 10 shown in connection with Figs. 1 to 6.

[0130] List of reference numerals:

[0131] 10 cartridge assembly

[0132] 12 cartridge

[0133] 14 cartridge

[0134] 16 head part

[0135] 18, 18’outlet of 12, outlet opening of 18

[0136] 20 outlet arrangement

[0137] 22 plug element

[0138] 24, 24’outlet of 14, outlet opening of 24

[0139] 26 closure

[0140] 28 end of 12

[0141] 30 end of 14

[0142] 32 connection means

[0143] 34 tongue

[0144] 36 groove

[0145] 38 receptacle

[0146] 40 front end of 22

[0147] 42 plug connector

[0148] 44 lip

[0149] 46 snap-fit connection

[0150] 48 snap element

[0151] 50 limb

[0152] 52 abutment

[0153] 54 reservoir

[0154] 56 conical surface of 16

[0155] 58 abutment surface

[0156] 60 base of 22

[0157] 62 truncated stopper

[0158] 64 window

[0159] 66 nose

[0160] 68 thread

[0161] 70 arm

[0162] 72 slot

[0163] 74 base

[0164] 76 plug

[0165] 78 body

[0166] 80 opening of 38

[0167] 82 rim of 38

[0168] 84 opening of 16

[0169] 86 outer surface

[0170] 88 outer thread

[0171] 90 cap

[0172] 92 rear facing surface

[0173] 94 plug 96 recess

[0174] 98 abutment

[0175] 100 plug element

[0176] 102 receptacle

[0177] 104 outer surface of 24

[0178] 106 second end of 102

[0179] 108 first end of 102

[0180] 110 connector

[0181] 112 part of closure member

[0182] 114 bayonet mount

[0183] 116 rib

[0184] 118 alignment means

[0185] 120 splines

[0186] 122 grooves

[0187] 124 plug for first outlet

[0188] 126 base plate of 124

[0189] 128 aperture of 124

[0190] 130 top end of 100

[0191] 132 wing of 100

[0192] 134 aperture of 132

[0193] 136 plug of 100

[0194] 138 projection of 24

[0195] 140 snap fit formed by 136 and 138

[0196] 142

[0197] A longitudinal axis

[0198] M, M’ material, material

Claims

Claims A cartridge assembly (10) comprising: first and second cartridges (12, 14) for storing first and second materials (M, M’); a head part (16) arranged at a first outlet (18) of the first cartridge (12), the head part (16) forming at least a part of an outlet arrangement (20) of the cartridge assembly (10); the outlet arrangement (20); a plug element (100) arranged at a second outlet (24) of the second cartridge (14) and closing the second outlet (24) of the second cartridge (14) in a storage state, the plug element (100) being configured to be introduced into the head part (16) and to cooperate with a closure (26) of the outlet arrangement (20), the closure (26) being removable from and attachable to the first and second outlets (18, 24) of the first and second cartridges (12, 14), wherein the plug element (100) is removed from the second outlet (18) after removal of said closure (26) from the cartridge assembly (10) and is insertable into said second outlet (18) prior to replacement of the closure (26) at the cartridge assembly (10). The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 1 , wherein a respective end (28, 30) of the first and second cartridges (12, 14) remote from the first and second outlets (18, 24) of the first and second cartridges (12, 14) comprises connection means (32), with the connection means (32) being configured to be connected to one another. The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the connection means (32) are formed by one or more tongue and groove (34, 36) connections.

4. The cartridge assembly (10) of one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the outlet arrangement (20) comprises a receptacle (102) configured to receive a front end (40) of the plug element (100).

5. The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 5, wherein the receptacle (38) is a rectangular shaped or an at least generally rectangular shaped receptacle (102).

6. The cartridge assembly (10) of one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the outlet arrangement (20) further comprises a snap element (48).

7. The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 6, wherein the snap element (48) is deflected following introduction of the plug element (100) into the head part (16) of the outlet arrangement (20).

8. The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the snap element (48) comprises one or more windows (64).

9. The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 8 and one of claims 6 to 7, wherein the second outlet (24) comprises one or more noses (66) and wherein the one or more noses (66) respectively engage one of said one or more windows (64).

10. The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 9, wherein the noses (66) are arranged at an outer surface (104) of the second outlet (24).11 . The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the noses (66) project radially outwardly from said second outlet (24).

12. The cartridges assembly (10) of one of claims 9 to 11 and one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the one or more windows (64) are formed in a wall of said receptacle (102).The cartridge assembly of claim 12, wherein the windows (64) are formed in a second end of the receptacle (102). The cartridge assembly of one of claims 4 to 13, wherein a part of the second outlet (24) projects beyond a first end of the receptacle (102). The cartridge assembly of one of claims 4 to 14, wherein the second outlet is introduced into the receptacle on introducing the plug element (100) into the head part (16). The cartridge assembly of claim 15, wherein the second outlet (24) is introduced into the receptacle (102) via a second end of the receptacle (102). The cartridge assembly of one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the outlet arrangement (20) comprises a connector (110) configured for releasable attachment of the closure (26) to the head part (16). The cartridge assembly of claim 17, wherein the second outlet (24) comprise a part (112) of the connector (110). The cartridge assembly of claim 18, wherein the second outlet (24) comprises said part (112) of the connector (110) on an outer surface thereof. The cartridge assembly of one of claim 17 to 19, wherein the connector (110) is a bayonet mount (114). The cartridge assembly of claim 20 and one of claims 18 and 19, wherein the part (112) of the connector (100) is a rib (116) of said bayonet mount (114). A cartridge assembly (10) comprising:first and second cartridges (12, 14) for storing first and second materials (M, M’); a head part (16) arranged at a first outlet (18) of the first cartridge (12), the head part (16) forming at least a part of an outlet arrangement (20) of the cartridge assembly (10); the outlet arrangement (20); a plug element (22) arranged at a second outlet (24) of the second cartridge (14) and closing the second outlet (24) of the second cartridge (14) in a storage state, the plug element (22) being configured to be introduced into the head part (16) and to cooperate with a closure (26) of the outlet arrangement (20), the closure (26) being removable from and attachable to the first and second outlets (18, 24) of the first and second cartridges (12, 14), wherein the plug element (22) is removed from the second outlet (18) on removal of said closure (26) from the cartridge assembly (10) and is insertable into said second outlet (18) on replacement of the closure (26) at the cartridge assembly (10). The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 22, wherein a respective end (28, 30) of the first and second cartridges (12, 14) remote from the first and second outlets (18, 24) of the first and second cartridges (12, 14) comprises connection means (32), with the connection means (32) being configured to be connected to one another. The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 22 or claim 23, wherein the connection means (32) are formed by one or more tongue and groove (34, 36) connections. The cartridge assembly (10) of one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the outlet arrangement (20) comprises a receptacle (38) configured to receive and hold a front end (40) of the plug element (22). The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 25, wherein the receptacle (38) is a truncated cone shaped receptacle (38).

27. The cartridge assembly (10) of one of claims 22 to 26, wherein the plug element (22) is configured to be connected to the outlet arrangement (20) via a plug connector (42).

28. The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 27, wherein the plug element (22) comprises a circumferentially extending lip (44) as the plug connector (42).

29. The cartridge assembly of claim 27 or claim 28, wherein the plug connector (42), i.e. the circumferentially extending lip (44), has a triangular shape in a section thereof taken in parallel to a longitudinal axis (A) of the plug element (22).

30. The cartridge assembly (10) of one of claims 22 to 29, wherein the plug element (22) cooperates with the closure (26) via a snap-fit connection (46).31 . The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 30 and one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the snap-fit connection (46) comprises the plug connector (42).

32. The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 25 and claim 31 , wherein the snap-fit connection (46) further comprises the receptacle (38).

33. The cartridge assembly (10) of any one of claims 22 to 32, wherein the plug element (22) further comprises a snap element (48).

34. The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 34, wherein the snap element (48) is deflected following introduction of the plug element (22) into the head part (16) of the outlet arrangement (20).

35. The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 33 or claim 34, wherein the snap element (48) comprises two limbs (50) connected to a base (60).

36. The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 35, wherein the base (60) extends radially outward from a body (78) of the plug element (22).

37. The cartridge assembly (10) of one of claims 33 to 36, wherein the snap element further comprises one or more windows (64).

38. The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 37 and one of claims 22 to 36, wherein the second outlet (24) comprises one or more noses (66) and wherein the one or more windows (64) respectively engage one of one or more of said noses (66).

39. The cartridge assembly (10) of one of claims 25 to 38, wherein the snap element (48) is deflected by means of a rotation on inserting the plug element (22) into the head part (16).

40. The cartridge assembly of one of claims 25 to 39, wherein the snap element (48) is deflected radially at a deflection structure present in one of the head part (16) and the outlet arrangement (20).41 . The cartridge assembly (10) of one of claims 22 to 40, wherein the plug element (22) comprises one of an abutment surface (58) and a thread (68).

42. The cartridge assembly (10) of one of claims 35 to 41 , wherein a respective one of the limbs (50) comprises a respective one of the windows (64).

43. The cartridge assembly (10) in accordance with one of claims 25 to 42, wherein the receptacle (38) comprises one or more elongate slots (70).

44. The cartridge assembly (10) of any one of claims 1 to 43 wherein the plug element (22; 102) comprises alignment means (118) configured to align the plug element (22; 102) relative to the second outlet (24) on insertion into the second outlet (24).The cartridge assembly (10) in accordance with claim 44, wherein the alignment means (118) comprise splines (120) extending in parallel to a longitudinal axis (A) of the cartridge assembly (10). The cartridge assembly (10) of claim 45, wherein the splines (120) cooperate with correspondingly shaped grooves (122) formed in the second outlet (24). The cartridge assembly 10 in accordance with one of claims 1 to 46, wherein the first and second cartridges (12, 14) are filled with first and second materials (M, M’). A method of assembling a cartridge assembly (10), optionally the cartridge assembly of one of claims 1 to 47, the method comprising the steps of:- inserting a plug element (22) attached to a second outlet (24) of a second cartridge (14) into a head part attached to a first outlet (14) of a first cartridge (12); and inserting respectively attaching said plug element (100; 22) into / to an outlet arrangement (20) comprising said head part (16).

Images