Formula dispensing device with anti-clogging mechanism

Abstract

Formula Dispensing Apparatus with Anti-Clogging Mechanism A formulation dispensing apparatus (100) can be used for hair and scalp treatments, such as a hair coloring apparatus. The apparatus may include a dispensing device having a pump (190) configured to draw a formulation from a container (308, 314) and discharge the fluid through a manifold (210) to a head (240) that includes at least one nozzle and a plurality of spreading projections. The dispensing device may further include a blocking element that isolates the formulation in the dispensing device from ambient air when the blocking element is in the blocked position and allows the pump (190) to discharge the formulation from the nozzle (242) when the blocking element is in the open position. Figure for abbreviation: [Fig 3]

Description

Title of the invention: Formula dispensing apparatus with anti-clogging mechanism SUMMARY

[0001] In one aspect, this disclosure relates, among other things, to representative embodiments of a formula dispensing device. In one example, the formula dispensing device is a hair coloring device having a consumable set. The embodiments described herein generally relate to hair and scalp treatment devices. The consumable set of the device can be configured to incorporate various components of the hair and scalp treatment device, some of which can be consumed and then replaced by a user. In this regard, the consumable set may include one or more formulation dispensing packets, nozzles, collection chambers, dispensing heads, etc. The formula dispensing device may also include a degassing feature that vents gases from the consumable set when it is mounted on a dispensing device.

[0002] According to an embodiment described herein, a formulation dispensing device comprises a container having an opening and configured to hold a volume of formulation. The formulation dispensing device further comprises a dispensing mechanism having a pump configured to draw a formulation from the container and discharge the fluid through a manifold to a head. The head comprises at least one nozzle and a plurality of spacing projections. The dispensing device further comprises a blocking element configured to move selectively between a blocked position and an open position. The blocking element isolates the formulation in the dispensing device from ambient air when the blocking element is in the blocked position and allows the pump to discharge the formulation from the nozzle when the blocking element is in the open position.

[0003] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the blocking feature defines a cap that can be selectively mounted on the spacing projections to couple the cap to the head in a removable manner, an inner surface of the cap blocking one outlet of each of the plurality of nozzles when the cap is coupled to the head.

[0004] In accordance with any one of the embodiments described herein, each spacing projection has an engagement feature formed on one end thereof, each engagement feature engaging a corresponding notch formed on the cap until the cap is coupled to the head.

[0005] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the locking member comprises a shutter which is closed in the locking position and open in the open position.

[0006] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the shutter blocks the discharge of the formulation from the collector to the head when the shutter is in the closed position.

[0007] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the shutter moves along a linear path to alternate between the open position and the closed position.

[0008] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the shutter is at least partially disposed within distribution channels of the collector.

[0009] In accordance with any one of the embodiments described herein, the shutter is manually movable between the open position and the closed position.

[0010] According to an embodiment described herein, a docking station is suitable for use with a formulation dispensing device. The device comprises an elongated engagement element having a fluidic communication channel with a pump configured to draw fluid through the engagement element and discharge the fluid into a manifold. The manifold supplies the fluid to at least one nozzle. The docking station may include a base configured to receive the engagement element in a sealed manner so that the pump is in fluidic engagement with a storage tank filled with a cleaning fluid. The pump is configured to draw cleaning fluid from the storage tank and discharge the cleaning fluid into the manifold and through at least one nozzle.

[0011] In accordance with any one of the embodiments described herein, the engagement element is arranged with a cavity of a delivery assembly, the base being dimensioned and configured to be received within the cavity.

[0012] In accordance with any one of the embodiments described herein, the base is rotationally coupled to a base.

[0013] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the storage tank is disposed within the base and is in fluidic connection with the engagement member via a tube when the engagement member is received by the base.

[0014] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, a valve is in fluidic communication with the tube and limits the flow of fluid from the tube to the storage tank.

[0015] In accordance with any one of the embodiments described herein, the base further comprises a recess configured to receive fluid discharged by at least one nozzle.

[0016] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the base is configured for alternating rotation between a vertical position and a horizontal position, with at least one nozzle extending at least partially into the recess when the base is received within the cavity of the delivery assembly and is in a horizontal position.

[0017] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the recess is in fluidic communication with the storage tank so that the fluid discharged from at least one nozzle is returned to the storage tank.

[0018] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the recess is in fluidic communication with a collection reservoir disposed within the base so that the fluid discharged from at least one nozzle is collected by the collection reservoir.

[0019] In accordance with any one of the embodiments described herein, the docking station further includes a power supply configured to charge the delivery device.

[0020] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the engagement element breaks the membrane when the container is mounted on the engagement element, a perforation of the membrane causing the container to change from a sealed state to a non-sealed state.

[0021] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the vent opening is in fluidic communication with the formulation when the engagement element is at least partially received within the opening of the container.

[0022] In accordance with any one of the embodiments described herein, the vent opening loses its seal when the engagement element breaks the membrane.

[0023] In accordance with any one of the embodiments described herein, the container includes a nozzle defining the opening.

[0024] In accordance with any one of the embodiments described herein, the container further comprises a sealing element in sealing engagement with the nozzle, the sealing element being traversed by a passage and being in fluidic communication with an internal portion of the container and with the opening defined by the nozzle.

[0025] In accordance with any one of the embodiments described herein, the engagement element hermetically engages the sealing member of the container when the container is mounted on the engagement element.

[0026] In accordance with any one of the embodiments described herein, the sealing element seals the vent opening when the container is mounted on the engagement element.

[0027] In accordance with any one of the embodiments described herein, an engagement sealing element is mounted on the engagement element, the engagement sealing element ensuring a sealing engagement between the engagement element and the nozzle when the container is mounted on the engagement element.

[0028] In accordance with any one of the embodiments described herein, the engagement sealing element is an O-ring.

[0029] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the formulation is chosen from the group consisting of permanent hair dye, semi-permanent hair dye, developer, conditioner, hair growth treatment, ROGAINE®, protein hair treatment, disulfide bond repairing hair treatment, OLAPLEX®, fluid hair treatment and fluid scalp treatment.

[0030] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the formulation dispensing apparatus further comprises a second container configured to hold a volume of a second formulation and a second elongated engagement element configured to be at least partially received by the second container. The formulation dispensing apparatus further comprises a collector configured to receive the first and second formulations from the first and second containers, respectively.

[0031] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the formulation delivery device further comprises a head assembly configured to receive a mixture of the first and second formulations from the collector and to distribute the mixture onto at least one of the hairs and scalps of a user.

[0032] In accordance with other embodiments described herein, a formulation delivery device comprises a first container having a first opening and configured to contain a volume of a first formulation, and a first elongated engagement element through which a first channel passes and which is configured to be at least partially received by the first opening of the first container when the first container is mounted on the first engagement element. A first vent opening is formed in the first engagement element and provides fluidic communication between the first channel and an area outside the first engagement element when the first container is disengaged from the first engagement element. The first vent opening is sealed, and the first channel receives a flow of the first formulation from the first container when the first container is mounted on the first engagement element.The formulation delivery device. It further includes a pump in fluidic communication with the first channel of the first engagement element to remove the first formulation from the first fluid container. The formulation dispensing device further includes a head in fluidic communication with the pump, the head being configured to discharge the first formulation.

[0033] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the formulation delivery apparatus further comprises a second container having a second opening and configured to hold a volume of a second formulation. A second elongated engagement element is traversed by a second channel and is configured to be at least partially received by the second opening of the second container when the second container is mounted on the second engagement element. A manifold is configured to mix the first and second formulations received from the pump and to supply a mixture of the first and second formulations to the head.

[0034] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, a second vent opening is formed in the second engagement element and ensures fluidic communication between the second channel and an area outside the second engagement element when the second container is disengaged from the second engagement element. The second vent opening is sealed, and the second channel receives a flow of the second formulation from the second container when the second container is mounted on the first second engagement element.

[0035] According to any one of the embodiments described herein, the first formulation is a hair dye, and the second formulation is a developer. Drawing description

[0036] The foregoing aspects and many related advantages of the disclosed object will be more readily appreciated as they are better understood by referring to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0037] [Fig-1] The [Fig. 1] is a perspective view of a representative embodiment of a formulation delivery device according to one aspect of this disclosure, wherein the device comprises a consumable assembly mounted on a delivery assembly;

[0038] [Fig.2] The [Fig.2] is another perspective view of the apparatus of the [Fig.1];

[0039] [Fig.3] The [Fig.3] is a side view in section of the apparatus of the [Fig.1];

[0040] [Fig.4] Fig.4 is a partially exploded perspective view of the apparatus the [Fig.1], in which the consumable set is disengaged from the delivery set;

[0041] [Fig.5] Fig.5 is another partially exploded perspective view of the apparatus of the [Fig.4];

[0042] [Fig.6] Fig.6 is another partially exploded perspective view of the apparatus of the [Fig.4], in which a portion of the housing of the delivery assembly is removed;

[0043] [Fig.7] The [Fig.7] is a side view in section of the apparatus of the [Fig.4];

[0044] [Fig.8] Fig.8 is a cross-sectional plan view of the consumable assembly. the delivery assembly as shown in [Fig.7];

[0045] [Fig.9] Fig.9 is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of a head and a collector of the delivery assembly as shown in [Fig.3];

[0046] [Fig. 10] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional plan view of a portion of the collector, as shown in [Fig.9];

[0047] [Fig. 11] The [Fig. 11] is a partial side view of the device as shown on the [Fig.3], in which the consumable assembly is mounted on the delivery assembly, and a tip of the consumable assembly has not yet engaged a coupler of the delivery assembly;

[0048] [Fig. 12] Fig. 12 is a partial side view thereof, in which the coupler established initial contact with the tip;

[0049] [Fig. 13] Fig. 13 is a partial side view thereof, in which the coupler ruptured a membrane that seals a formulation container of the consumable assembly;

[0050] [Fig. 14] Fig. 14 is a partial side view thereof, in which the assembly consumables are mounted on the delivery assembly;

[0051] [Fig. 15] The [Fig. 15] is a perspective view of the apparatus of the [Fig. 1] with a anti-obstruction cap mounted on the head of the device;

[0052] [Fig. 16] The [Fig. 16] is a perspective view of the apparatus of the [Fig. 15], in which the anti-obstruction cap is removed from the head of the device;

[0053] [Fig. 17] The [Fig. 17] is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of the [Fig. 16] with the anti-obstruction cap mounted on the head of the device;

[0054] [Fig. 18] The [Fig. 18] is a partial cross-sectional side view of another device delivery of formulation of embodiment in accordance with one aspect of this disclosure, in which a sealing feature is disengaged;

[0055] [Fig. 19] Fig. 19 is a partial cross-sectional side view thereof, in which the sealing feature is engaged;

[0056] [Fig. 20] Fig. 20 is a side view of a cleaning cartridge suitable for cleaning of the formulation delivery device shown in [Fig.1];

[0057] [Fig. 21] Fig. 21 is a side view of a representative embodiment of a docking station for the formulation delivery device shown in [Fig. 1], in which the delivery assembly is positioned to be mounted on the docking station, and the docking station is in a first configuration;

[0058] [Fig.22] The [Fig.22] is a side view thereof, in which the delivery assembly is mounted on the docking station, and the docking station is in the first configuration;

[0059] [Fig.23] Fig.23 is a side view thereof, in which the docking station is in the second configuration; and

[0060] [Fig. 24] [Fig. 24] is a side view of another representative embodiment of a docking station for the formulation dispensing device illustrated in [Fig. 1], in which the dispensing assembly is positioned for mounting on the docking station, and the docking station is in a first configuration. Detailed description

[0061] The following description provides several examples that generally relate to hair and scalp treatment applicators and formulation delivery devices. Applying a wide variety of treatment formulations to human hair and scalp is a common practice. In some cases, it is beneficial for the treatment formulation to be applied to a targeted area of ​​the hair or scalp tissue. In one example, it may be desirable to apply a treatment formulation to a portion of the hair near the scalp, for example, when applying a hair coloring dye to the roots during a color maintenance procedure. In another example, it may be desirable to apply a treatment formula directly to the scalp tissue while minimizing contact with the hair.

[0062] Existing systems for applying hair and scalp treatment formulas are widely used. For example, hair coloring kits are commonly used to alter the appearance of hair color or to blend gray hair, among other uses. Existing hair coloring systems may use two or more components that are packaged separately and then mixed on demand by the system to provide a treatment formulation that is applied to the hair. In some examples, these components are stored separately in sealed containers before being mounted within the application systems. When the containers are mounted within the application system, they rupture so that the components stored within can be extracted, mixed together, and applied by the user.

[0063] Examples of treatment formulations applied by the present embodiments include, but are not limited to: a permanent hair dye; a semi-permanent hair dye; a developer; a conditioner; A hair growth treatment, such as minoxidil manufactured under the trade name ROGAINE®; a protein hair treatment; a disulfide bond repairing hair treatment; a fluid hair treatment; a fluid scalp treatment, and the like. Although any hair and scalp treatment formulation may be properly applied using the embodiments of the device described herein, this disclosure generally refers to the hair coloring formulation as an example of a treatment formulation applied by the device described below. However, it should be appreciated that any of the listed hair and scalp treatment formulations are interchangeable with the coloring formulation described herein.

[0064] The following discussion provides examples of systems, apparatus, and / or devices for a formula delivery system configured to apply a treatment formulation to a targeted area of ​​the hair and / or scalp. The device of this disclosure typically includes a delivery system configured to be grasped by a user's hand, and a head having a plurality of nozzles from which the color formulation is discharged. In some embodiments, the head may further include a plurality of spacing protrusions near the nozzles to space the nozzle orifice away from the scalp during use. In other embodiments, the nozzles may move during use, for example, by a reciprocating or oscillating motion, so that the nozzles can provide more complete coverage of the treatment formulation.

[0065] Examples of the systems described above are disclosed by U.S. Patent No. 11,470,940 (“the '940 patent”), granted to Grez. The '940 patent teaches the application of hair coloring formulations that generally comprise at least one separate dye and developer that are to be mixed in controlled proportions for effective and predictable results. As used in the '940 patent and in the present application, the term “color formulation” generally refers to any of the dyes, developers, formulations, fluids, or any mixture thereof.

[0066] Certain components of the colorant formulation are known to release gas over time. Therefore, a sealed container filled with colorant formulation may be at least partially filled with gas produced between the time the container is initially sealed and the time the colorant formulation is used. The mixing ratio of a colorant formulation can be important for the safety and efficacy of a hair coloring system, and the gas produced by the colorant formulation when it is sealed in the The container can affect this ratio. In known embodiments, a device can initially be used to distribute a coloring formulation with any accumulated gas before applying the coloring formulation to the hair. However, such configurations waste the coloring formulation.

[0067] Using the embodiments of this disclosure, the gases that have accumulated in sealed containers of color formulations are vented when the containers are initially connected to the apparatus. Thus, the desired mixing ratio of the color formulation is automatically maintained without waste of the color formulation.

[0068] Although the formula delivery device 100 and other examples of embodiments are described and illustrated as being used with a plurality of nozzles, it should be appreciated that the formula delivery devices shown and described herein can be used with any suitable formulation applicator configuration and for any suitable use.

[0069] Figures 1-7 show a representative embodiment of a Formula 100 dispensing device according to aspects of this disclosure. The Formula 100 dispensing device is shown as an apparatus having a dispensing assembly 110 and a consumable assembly 300. Accordingly, the Formula 100 dispensing device will be referred to hereafter as apparatus 100.

[0070] As described in more detail, one embodiment of the consumable assembly 300 comprises two or more formulation containers 308 and 314, the interiors of which are in fluidic communication with a pump 190 via a coupler 140. The pump 190 draws the formulation from each of the formulation containers 308 and 314 and discharges the formulations into a collector 210. The formulations are mixed by static mixers as they pass through the collector 210 and are then discharged through a head 240 for application to a user's hair and / or scalp.

[0071] With reference to the cross-sectional views in Figures 3, 7, and 8, the consumable assembly 300 will now be described. The consumable assembly 300 allows a user to replace depleted containers of colorant formulation and / or to use different colorant formulations with the dispensing device. In this respect, the consumable assembly 300 is configured to be detachably coupled to the dispensing assembly 110 to form the device 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable assembly 300 includes an elongated housing 302 dimensioned and configured to be received with the cavity 118 of the housing 112 of the dispensing assembly 110 for mounting the consumable assembly onto the dispensing assembly.

[0072] The consumable assembly 300 is configured to be removably received within the cavity 118 of the delivery assembly 110 such that the delivery assembly and the consumable assembly cooperate to form the device 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 302 of the consumable assembly 300 has a release button 304 which engages a notch feature 126 formed on the housing 112 of the delivery assembly 110 to removably attach the consumable assembly to the delivery assembly when the consumable assembly is mounted on it (see [Fig. 3]). To release the release button 304 from the notch feature 126, a user presses the release button 304 to release the release button from the notch feature, thus allowing the consumable assembly to be removed from the delivery assembly 110.In other embodiments, other fastening configurations are appropriately used, such as snap-fit ​​connections, fasteners, hook-and-loop fasteners, releasable adhesives, magnets, and the like. Additional fastening features also fall within the scope of this disclosure, such as a lower notch, which can provide greater fastening force between the consumable assembly 300 and the dispensing assembly 110. In other embodiments, any number or combination of fastening features is appropriately used to attach the consumable assembly 300 to the dispensing assembly 110.

[0073] With further reference to Figures 3, 7, and 8, the consumable assembly 300 comprises a first formulation container 308 and a second formulation container 314 arranged within the cavity 306 of the housing 302. The first and second formulation containers 308 and 314 contain, respectively, the first and second formulation containers 308 and 314. In some embodiments, the first formulation container 308 contains a coloring formulation such as a dye, and the second formulation container 314 contains a developer. In other embodiments, a single formulation container with a coloring formulation is used appropriately.

[0074] Using a developer with the hair dye formulation provides a longer-lasting coloring effect, up to about one month. The combination of hair dye and developer is generally called permanent hair color, while applying a dye without using a developer results in semi-permanent hair color, usually lasting about one week. The developer can be used with a single container of formulation or with multiple containers of formulation.

[0075] The first container of formulation 308 will henceforth be described knowing that the second container of formulation 314 is configured similarly and, in some embodiments, contains a second formulation 316 which is different from the The first formulation 310 is contained within the first formulation container 308. The first formulation container 308 includes a package 320, i.e., a reservoir, configured to be filled with the first formulation 310. In some embodiments, the package 320 is a flexible pouch. In some embodiments, the package is a rigid or semi-rigid container.

[0076] As best shown in Figures 11-14, the formulation container 308 further includes a nozzle 322 mounted on one end of the package 320 and configured to interface with the coupler 140, described below. In this regard, the nozzle 322 has an opening 324 sized and configured to receive an engagement element 144 of the coupler 140 when the consumable assembly 300 is mounted on the delivery assembly 110 so that the engagement element extends into the formulation container 308. The nozzle 322 further includes a stop 326 formed on it which engages the coupler 140 to limit the movement of the engagement element 144 within the formulation container 308.

[0077] A sealing element 328 is positioned between the nozzle 322 and the packet 320. An opening 330 extends through the sealing element 328 and is sized and configured to receive an engagement element 144 of the coupler 140 in sealing engagement when the consumable assembly 300 is mounted on the delivery assembly 110. As shown in Figures 11 and 12, a membrane 332 covers one end of the opening 330. The membrane 332, in combination with the sealing engagement of the sealing element 328 with both the packet 320 and the nozzle 322, seals the packet so that the formulation 310 contained in the packet is isolated from the ambient environment. In some embodiments, the membrane 332 is a unidirectional or bidirectional breathable membrane configured to allow degassing of the package 320 without entry of contaminants or exit of the package contents.In other embodiments, the sealing element 328 includes a valve (not shown), used in conjunction with any of the embodiments herein, the valve being configured to regulate the flow of the fluid from the packages 320. Any combination of the above features may also be used.

[0078] The delivery assembly 110 will now be described in more detail. The housing 112 of the delivery assembly 110 is generally configured to house and enclose various components of the delivery assembly 110, which will be described in more detail below. As shown in Figures 1-3, the housing 112 includes a control button 120, a power indicator 122, and a port 124. The housing 112 provides a surface that the user can grip with one hand while using the device 100. In this respect, the housing 112 is ergonomically shaped in the illustrated embodiments. However, in other embodiments, the housing 112 is suitable for any shape to contain the internal components and provide one or more gripping surfaces for the user. In other embodiments, the consumable assembly 300 can form at least part of the gripping surfaces for the user. In the illustrated embodiments, the housing 112 comprises a first portion of housing 114 and a second portion of housing 116 coupled together to define at least partially a cavity 118 (see [Fig. 5]). In other embodiments, the housing 112 has a unitary construction or comprises three or more portions coupled together to define at least partially a cavity.

[0079] Housing 112 houses various device control components, such as one or more elements of a pump 190 (see [Fig.3]), a motor that drives the pump 190, a central unit, a battery, a communication system (such as wireless networking (Wi-Fi), radio frequency identification (RFID), near field communication (NFC), BLUETOOTH®, etc.), an electrical and data connector at port 124 (such as Universal Serial Bus (USB), FireWire, or similar), temperature sensors, accelerometers, fluid sensors, data scanners, an audible signal generator, fluid heating sources, temperature controllers and other suitable control components, which are not shown in the Figures for simplicity.In some embodiments, port 124 is used appropriately to provide an interface between the internal control components of device 100 and external components / systems, and / or to charge the battery of device 100.

[0080] The control button 120 can be configured to activate, deactivate, and control specific features of the device 100. In some embodiments, pressing the control button 120 turns on the device 100 so that the color formulation is dispensed from the formulation containers 308 and 314 (see [Fig. 8]). In these embodiments, releasing the control button 120 can stop the flow of color formulation. In some examples, the control button 120 can be used to initialize the device 100 or to place the device 100 in a state to perform certain functions, such as one or more of the following: calculating a mixing ratio of the components of the color formulation; entering a cleaning or purging mode; heating the formulation; collecting data from the formulation containers, such as the remaining volume, mixing ratios, color information, etc.; sending and receiving signals via port 124; analyzing data regarding user preferences; collecting data from sensors; providing status indications to the user, such as output power level, battery life, remaining formulation volume, sensor data, data connection information, . etc.; and communication with auxiliary equipment. In some embodiments, the control button 120 is capable of pressure-sensitive operation, such that applying higher pressure to the control button 120 causes a variable response, such as, for example, causing the formulation to flow more rapidly, the nozzles to move more quickly, or the like. In some embodiments, various operating parameters can be controlled by the use of a smart device, such as a phone (as described in detail in US Patent No. 10,694,832 granted to Grez).

[0081] With reference to Figures 3, 6 and 11-14, the coupler 140 is mounted inside the housing 112 and is configured to engage the inner portions of the formulation containers 308 and 314 so that the formulations 310 and 316, respectively, contained therein, can be removed for application to the user. The coupler 140 has a base 142 mounted inside the housing 112 of the delivery assembly 110. A pair of elongated engagement elements 144 extend from the base 142 into the cavity 306, and each engagement element terminates at a point 146 opposite the base 142. Each engagement element 144 is sized and positioned to extend through an opening 324 of the consumable assembly 300 into one of the formulation containers 308 and 314 when the consumable assembly 300 is mounted on the delivery assembly 110.

[0082] As Figures 11-14 best show, each engagement element 144 has a channel 148 which extends through the element to an orifice 150 formed on the opposite side of the base 142. Each engagement element 144 may further include a sealing element 154, such as an O-ring, mounted on the outer surface of the engagement element. The sealing element 154 is dimensioned and configured to hermetically engage an inner surface of the corresponding opening 330 through which the sealing element extends when the consumable assembly 300 is mounted on the delivery assembly 110. One or more openings 152 (vent openings) extend radially through a portion of the engagement element 144 between the sealing element 154 and the tip 146 of the engagement element.

[0083] For each orifice 150 on the coupler 140, a formulation tube is attached at one end to the orifice and at the other end to the pump 190. In this respect, each formulation tube ensures fluid communication between one of the orifices 150 and an inlet of the pump 190. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable assembly 300 comprises two formulation containers 308 and 314, each having a corresponding opening 324. The coupler 140 comprises two elongated elements 144, each elongated element corresponding to one of the openings 324 of the formulation containers 308 and 314. A first formulation tube 170 is mounted at one end on an orifice 150 of the coupler 140 and at the other end on a first inlet of the pump 190. Similarly, a second formulation tube 172 is mounted at one end on the other orifice 150 of the coupler 140 and at the other end on a second inlet of the pump 190. Therefore, when the consumable assembly 300 is mounted on the delivery assembly 110, the interior of the first formulation container 308 is in sealed fluidic communication with the first inlet orifice of the pump, and the interior of the second formulation container 314 is in sealed fluidic communication with the second inlet orifice of the pump 190.

[0084] In other embodiments, the consumable assembly 300 includes any suitable number of formulation containers. For such embodiments, the coupler 140 has a corresponding number of engagement elements and orifices such that each engagement element engages one of the formulation containers, and each orifice is in fluidic communication with an inlet orifice of the pump 190 via a formulation tube. Consequently, the interior of each formulation container is in leak-proof communication with an inlet orifice of the pump. In some embodiments, the delivery assembly 100 has more than one pump, each pump being in leak-proof fluidic communication with the interior of one or more formulation containers through corresponding engagement elements and formulation tubes.

[0085] The pump 190 is driven by a suitable motor (not shown) and is configured to draw dye formulations 310 and 316 from formulation containers 308 and 314, respectively, through formulation tubes 170 and 172, respectively. In some embodiments, the pump 190 has a number of discharge ports corresponding to the number of inlets. Each discharge port communicates with a corresponding inlet port on the manifold 210. In the illustrated embodiment, a first discharge port (not shown) discharges the first component of formulation 310 received from the first formulation container 308 to a first inlet port of manifold 214, and a second discharge port (not shown) discharges the second component of formulation 316 received from the second formulation container 314 to a second inlet port of manifold 216.In this regard, (referring to Figures 3 and 9), the first discharge port of the pump is in sealed fluidic communication with the first inlet port of the manifold 214 by a first discharge tube 174, and the second discharge port of the pump is in sealed fluidic communication with the second inlet port of the manifold 216 by a second discharge tube 176.

[0086] In some embodiments, a peristaltic pump 190 is used. In this respect, an advantage of a peristaltic-type pump is that the pump is self-priming. However, in other embodiments, any suitable pump, or series of pumps, is used to draw the color formulation from the formulation containers 308 and 314 into the manifold 210.

[0087] Referring now to Figures 9 and 10, the manifold 210 receives color formulations 310 and 316 from the pump 190 and mixes the components as the color formulations move towards the head 240. In this regard, the manifold housing 212 has a plurality of chambers for controlling the mixing, processing and discharge of the color formulations from the formulation containers 308 and 314.

[0088] In one embodiment, the manifold 210 includes a housing 212 which comprises a first mixing chamber 218 arranged in series with a second mixing chamber 222. The first mixing chamber 218 receives color formulations 310 and 316 from the pump through the first and second inlet ports 214 and 216, respectively. A static mixer 220 is disposed in the first mixing chamber 218 and mixes the color formulations 310 and 316 as they pass through the first mixing chamber. The color formulations 310 and 316 then pass into the second mixing chamber 222 and are subsequently mixed by a second static mixer 224 disposed therein. The mixed color formulations 310 and 316 then travel through distribution channels 226 which distribute the mixture to the nozzles 242 of the head 240.

[0089] The head 240 comprises a plurality of elongated nozzles 242 extending from the collector 210. Each elongated nozzle 242 has a channel 244 passing through it and configured to discharge the color formulation received from the collector 210 through one or more outlet openings 246 at the end of the nozzle 242 when the apparatus 100 is in use. In some embodiments, the nozzles 242 are arranged in one or more rows along a portion of the housing 112 of the delivery assembly 110, generally in a direction along the length of the apparatus 100, as shown in Figures 1, 4, and 9. In other embodiments, the nozzles 242 are suitably positioned at an angle to the length of the apparatus 100.

[0090] In some embodiments, the nozzles 242 have a length of between approximately 0.5 cm and approximately 4.0 cm from the manifold 210 to the end of the nozzles 242 at the outlet openings 246. In other embodiments, the nozzles 242 have a length of between approximately 1.4 cm and approximately 1.8 cm from the manifold 210 to the end of the nozzles 242 at the outlet openings 246. In other embodiments, the nozzles 242 have a length of approximately 1.6 cm between the manifold 210 and the end of the nozzles 242 at the outlet openings 246. In other embodiments, any length of nozzle is used appropriately.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of spacing projections 248 extend substantially outward in the direction of the nozzles 242 from the housing 112 in one or more rows. In this respect, substantially in the direction of the nozzles 242 refers to an angle of approximately 25 degrees maximum from the direction along the nozzles 242. In the depicted embodiment, the first and second rows of projections 248 are positioned along each side of a single row of elongated nozzles 242. In some embodiments, the spacing projections 248 may be arranged at an angle to the plurality of nozzles 242. (For example, see [Fig. 4] of US Patent Application No. 15 / 339,551)

[0092] In some embodiments, each of the spacing projections 248 has a length (measured from the housing 112 to one end of the spacing projection 248) such that the end of the spacing projection 248 and the outlet openings 246 of the nozzles 242 are substantially coplanar. In other embodiments, the spacing projections 248 have a length (from the housing 112 to the end of the spacing projection 248) such that the spacing projections 248 are longer than one length of the nozzles 242 (measured from the housing 112 to one end of the nozzles 242). In this regard, during use, the spacing projections 248 would come into contact with an application surface, such as a localized portion of the scalp, and would move the outlet opening 246 away from the nozzles 242 away from the application surface to provide space for the discharge of the coloring formulation through the outlet opening 246.In embodiments where the spacing projections 248 are longer than the plurality of nozzles 242, the spacing projections 248 are approximately 0.1 mm to 5.0 mm longer than the length of each of the plurality of nozzles 242. In other embodiments, the spacing projections 248 are approximately 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm longer than the length of each of the plurality of nozzles 242. In other embodiments, the spacing projections 248 are approximately 1.0 mm longer than the length of each of the plurality of nozzles 242.

[0093] The plurality of nozzles 242 extends from a surface of the collector housing 212 such that portions of a user's hair pass between the plurality of nozzles 242 when the user passes the device 100 over the surface, for example, the scalp. In some embodiments, the plurality of nozzles 242 is configured to perform a reciprocating back-and-forth movement of the collector 210 along the direction of the row of the plurality of nozzles 242. In this respect, the collector housing 212 translates relative to the housing 112 so that the coloring formulation covers surface areas between each of the nozzles 242 when the device 100 passes over the surface in a direction perpendicular to the row of nozzles 242. Consequently, the entire surface under the nozzles 242 can be covered by the color formulation without overlapping passes of the apparatus 100 over the surface. In other embodiments, the nozzles 242 of the apparatus are configured to oscillate, reciprocate along the length of the nozzles 242, vibrate, or remain stationary during use. Embodiments of reciprocating heads are described in patent '940.

[0094] As noted above, in some embodiments, an energy source (for example, a heat source, not shown) can be added at any location in the path of the color formulation flow to raise the temperature of the formulation, or it can be added to the apparatus 100 so that the heat is transferred to the application surface, for example, the scalp. In this regard, for some formulations, it may be beneficial, either for user comfort, formulation efficiency, or both, to apply the formulation to the user at an increased temperature, or to heat the application surface. In these embodiments, the heat source is configured to deliver energy to the formulation or to the application surface.In some embodiments, the energy source is an ultraviolet radiation source configured to illuminate the plurality of nozzles 242 to transfer the ultraviolet radiation to the application surface, such as hair roots and / or scalp tissue. In other embodiments, the energy source is a heat source configured to heat the formulation before discharge from the plurality of outlet nozzles 242.

[0095] As mentioned previously, some dye formulations produce gas over time. Consequently, a sealed formulation container filled with dye formulations may become partially filled with unwanted gas when the consumable assembly 300 is initially mounted on the delivery assembly 110. Even container embodiments with a bidirectional breathable membrane, as described above, can accumulate gas within the containers. As we will now describe with reference to Figures 11-14, embodiments of the disclosed apparatus 100 ensure degassing of the containers when the consumable assembly 300 is mounted on the delivery assembly 110.

[0096] Referring now to [Fig. 11], the consumable assembly 300 is shown partially inserted into the cavity 118 of the delivery assembly 110. The formulation container 308 of the consumable assembly 300 is in a sealed configuration in which the membrane 332 is intact. The container 308 is filled with a formulation 310 and a quantity of gas 312 produced by the formulation due to the Outgassing has accumulated within the container. Engaging the consumable assembly 300 with the housing 112 of the delivery assembly aligns each engagement element 144 of the coupler 140 with a corresponding opening 324 of one of the formulation containers 308. In [Fig. 12], the consumable assembly 300 is further inserted into the cavity 118 of the delivery assembly 110 so that the tip 146 of the engagement element 144 is in contact with the sealing element 328 and the membrane 332 remains intact. That is, the formulation container 308 is still in a sealed configuration.

[0097] Now referring to [Fig. 13], an additional movement of the consumable assembly 300 in the cavity 118 causes the membrane 332 to break by the tip 146 of the engagement element 144. With the membrane broken, the formulation container is in a configuration rendered non-sealing. As the consumable assembly 300 continues to move within the cavity 118, the engagement element 144 is received into the sealing engagement through the opening 330 of the sealing element 328. Due to this sealing engagement, the channel 148 of the engagement element 144 is in sealed fluidic communication with the interior of the formulation container 308. As shown in [Fig. 13], there is a gap between the outer surface of the engagement element 144 and the opening 324 of the nozzle 322. The vent opening 152 formed in the engagement element 144 opens into this gap.Therefore, gas 312 has a path to escape from the formulation 308 container so that the container is degassed before initial use.

[0098] Figure 14 shows the consumable assembly 300 fully mounted on the delivery assembly 110. The engagement element 144 of the coupler 140 is in contact with the stop 326 of the nozzle 322, which prevents any further movement of the consumable assembly 300 into the cavity of the delivery assembly 110. As described previously, the release button 304 is engaged with the notch 126 of the delivery assembly 110 (see Figure 3) so that the consumable assembly 300 is removably coupled to the delivery assembly. The sealing element 154 (O-ring) is in a sealing engagement with the nozzle 322 to block the vent path shown in Figure 13. In some embodiments, an engagement of the sealing member 328 of the formulation container 308 with the engagement element 144 covers the vent opening 152, further blocking the vent path shown in [Fig. 14].Therefore, the formulation tube 170 is in sealed fluidic communication with the inside of the formulation container 308 through the coupler, and the formulation 310 can be withdrawn from the formulation container by the pump. This means that the device 100 is ready for use.

[0099] Known formulation delivery devices of the type described above draw fluid formulations through various internal components (tubes, pumps, manifolds, heads, etc.) for application to a user's hair and / or scalp. When the application is complete, the fluid formulations remain within the device components. Over time, the formulation remaining inside the components can dry out, forming solid or semi-solid blockages that obstruct the device components. These blockages can sometimes render the devices unusable. At other times, the devices are usable but operate less efficiently. In this respect, the blockages can limit the flow of formulation through the devices to less than ideal rates. Furthermore, the blockages can increase the workload required by the pumps, which can reduce their lifespan and also drain the battery or batteries more quickly.Below are presented various embodiments of anti-clogging configurations that prevent and / or reduce clogging of formulation delivery devices.

[0100] Certain anti-clogging systems prevent or reduce clogging by isolating the formulation from the ambient air. In this respect, the formulation dispensing device acts as a sealed container that prevents or slows down the drying process undergone by formulations exposed to air.

[0101] With reference to Figures 15-17, an embodiment of a cap 350 is suitable for use with embodiments of the apparatus 100 shown in Figures 1-14 and described above. The cap 350 is sized and configured to be removably mounted on the head 240 of the apparatus 100. When mounted on the head 240 (see Figures 15 and 17), the cap 350 hermetically seals the nozzles 242 to block the outlet openings 246. With the outlet openings 246 sealed, the formulation within the nozzles 242 is isolated from the ambient air, which limits the drying of the formulation in the nozzles 242 and reduces or eliminates obstruction.

[0102] The cap 350 has a side wall 352 configured to surround the head 240 and a closure 354 extending over one end of the side wall. As best shown in [Fig. 17], the cap 350 has notches 356 formed on its inner portion. Each notch 356 is sized and configured to receive an engagement feature 250 formed at the end of a corresponding spacing projection 248. When the cap 350 is mounted on the head 240, an engagement of the engagement features 250 with the notches 356 secures the cap 350 to the head.

[0103] To remove the cap 350, a user pulls the cap away from the device 100 in the direction of the spacing projections 248 to elastically deform the spacing projections and / or the side wall 352 to release the engagement features 250 from the notches 356. Similarly, to mount the cap 350 onto the head 240, a user aligns the cap with the head and pushes the cap towards the device 100. As the cap 350 moves towards the device 100, the spacing projections 248 and / or the side wall 352 deform elastically until the engagement features 250 are seated within the corresponding notches 356. When the cap 350 is thus positioned, the engagement features 250 cooperate with the notches 356 to provide a tight fit that maintains the position of the cap relative to the head 240. In some embodiments, the position of the mounted cap 350 is maintained by fasteners, a keyed engagement, elastic straps, or any other suitable configuration.

[0104] Still with reference to [Fig.17], the cap 350 has an inner surface 358 configured to hermetically engage one end of each nozzle 242. An engagement of the surface 358 with the nozzle 242 blocks the outlet opening 246 of the nozzle, thus sealing the channel 244 of the nozzle and isolating any formulation within the apparatus 100 from the ambient air.

[0105] Referring now to Figures 18 and 19, another embodiment of a formula 100 delivery apparatus is shown, the apparatus providing selective isolation of the internal components from the ambient air to reduce and / or eliminate obstruction. In one embodiment, a plurality of shutters 370 are positioned within the distribution channels 226 of the manifold 210. The shutters 370 are configured for selective reciprocating movement between an open position (see [Fig. 18]) and a closed position (see [Fig. 19]).

[0106] During operation of the apparatus 100, the shutters 370 are in the open position, and a formulation or formulation mixture is able to pass through the distribution channels 226 of the manifold 210 to be dispensed through the nozzles 242 of the head 240. When the apparatus 100 is not in use, the shutters 370 are in the closed position. In the closed position, the shutters 370 block the channel 244 of each nozzle 242 so that the manifold and all the formulation it contains are isolated from the ambient air. That is to say, the shutters 370 seal the formulation disposed within the apparatus 100 "upstream" of the nozzles 242, i.e., from the manifold 210 to the formulation containers 308 and 314.

[0107] In some embodiments, the shutters 370 move back and forth along a linear path between the open and closed positions. In other embodiments, the shutters 370 are rotary shutters. In still other embodiments, the shutters are actuated electronically or manually. It is desirable that any suitable shutter capable of selectively blocking and unblocking the nozzles 242 be used.

[0108] Other anti-clogging systems prevent or eliminate clogging by flushing out residual formula and / or existing clogging from the components of Device 100. When a user has finished using the device, a cleaning fluid is pumped through the system along the formulation path to clean the components of Device 100 so that the components are free of formulation until the next use.

[0109] Figure 20 illustrates an embodiment of a cleaning assembly 400 for use with embodiments of the device 100 shown in Figures 1-14. The cleaning assembly 400 is dimensioned and configured so that it can be mounted on the delivery assembly 110 in place of the consumable assembly 300. In this respect, embodiments of the cleaning assembly 400 may include the housing 302 of the consumable assembly 300 or a housing of similar shape.

[0110] A cleaning container 402 is disposed within the cavity 306 of the housing 302. In some embodiments, the cleaning container includes a housing 404 filled with a cleaning fluid 406. Similar to the formulation containers 308 and 314 of the consumable assembly 300, embodiments of the cleaning container 402 may include sealing elements 328 and nozzles 322 with openings 324 that are configured to interface hermetically with the coupler 140 of the delivery assembly. More specifically, the openings 324 are sized and positioned to receive the engagement elements 144 of the coupler 140 in sealing engagement so that the pump 190 can draw the cleaning fluid 406 out of the cleaning container 402 and discharge the cleaning fluid through the manifold 210 and the head 240.By pumping the cleaning fluid 406 along the same path as formulations 310 and 316, the delivery assembly components are purged of residual formulations that might otherwise clog the delivery assembly components 110. Before the next use, the user removes the cleaning assembly 400 and mounts the removed consumable assembly 300 or a replacement consumable assembly.

[0111] In some embodiments, the cleaning fluid 406 may comprise water, a clarifying shampoo, acetone, and other suitable fluids or combinations of fluids. In other embodiments, the cleaning container 402 may have separate containers filled with distinct cleaning fluids suitable for cleaning formulations 310 and 316 contained in the corresponding formulation containers 308 and 314 of the consumable assembly 300.

[0112] Figures 21-23 show an embodiment of a docking station 500 suitable for cleaning embodiments of the device 100 shown in Figures 1-14. The docking station 500 comprises a base 530 rotationally coupled to a base 510 about an axis 542. The base 530 is configured for alternating rotation about the axis 542 between a vertical position (see Figures 21 and 22) and a horizontal position (see [Fig. 23]). As described in more detail, to clean the components of the delivery assembly 110, i.e., to purge formulations 310 and 316 from the delivery assembly, the delivery assembly is mounted on the base 530, which is then rotated to the horizontal position. With the delivery assembly 110 in the horizontal position, the pump 190 draws the cleaning fluid 516 from the base 510 and discharges it through the head 240. The discharged cleaning fluid 516 is collected in the base 510.

[0113] The base 530 includes an insert portion 534 dimensioned and configured to be received in the cavity 118 of the delivery assembly 110. In some embodiments, the insert portion 534 has a shape similar to the housing 302 of the consumable assembly 300. One or more fittings 536, each having an opening 538, are positioned on the end of the insert portion 534. Each fitting 536 is configured so that the opening 538 receives one of the engagement members 144 of the delivery assembly 110 to place the engagement member in leak-proof fluidic communication with the fitting 536.

[0114] The base 510 includes a housing 512 containing a storage tank 544. The storage tank 544 is at least partially filled with cleaning fluid 516. A valve 520 provides unidirectional fluid communication between a lower portion of the storage tank 544 and a first end of a flexible tube 540. The valve 520 allows the fluid to flow from the storage tank 544 to the tube 540 while preventing the fluid from flowing back from the tube into the storage tank. Consequently, the tube 540 remains primed when the base 530 is in the vertical position, even when the delivery assembly 110 is removed.

[0115] A second end of the tube 540 is in fluidic communication with one or more fittings 536. In embodiments with more than one fitting 536, a manifold may be included to distribute the fluid from the tube 540 to the fittings. In some embodiments, several tubes are included, each providing fluidic communication between the storage tank 544 and one or more of the fittings 536.

[0116] A recess 514 is formed in an upper portion of the base 510. The recess 514 is sized and positioned so that when the delivery assembly 110 is mounted on the base 530, and the base is in a horizontal position, the head 240 of the delivery assembly is positioned above the recess. In some embodiments, a portion of the head 240 extends into the recess 514. A channel 518 connects the recess 514 and the storage tank 544. In some embodiments, the channel 518 is inclined downwards towards the storage tank 544 so that the fluid in the recess 514 flows into the storage tank under the force of gravity.

[0117] To purge the delivery assembly 110 of residual formulations, a user first removes the consumable assembly 300 from the device 100. The delivery assembly 110 is mounted on the base 530 while the base is in a vertical position. That is, the delivery assembly 110 is positioned above the insert portion 534 so that the insert portion is positioned to be received by the cavity 118 of the delivery system (see [Fig. 21]). The delivery system 110 is then moved downwards so that the insert portion 534 moves within the cavity 118 until the engagement element(s) 144 are in fluidic tight contact with the corresponding fittings 536 of the base 530 (see [Fig. 22]). When the delivery assembly 110 is mounted on the base 530, the cleaning fluid 516 from the tank 544 can be drawn through the valve 520 and the tube 540 by the pump 190.

[0118] The base 530 and the delivery assembly 110 mounted on it are rotated about the axis 542 towards the horizontal position (see [Fig. 23]). Once the base 530 and the delivery assembly are positioned, a cleaning cycle is started. During a cleaning cycle, pump 190 draws cleaning fluid 516 from storage tank 544 into coupler 140 through valve 520 and tube 540. Pump 190 discharges the cleaning fluid 516 to manifold 210 and from head 240. The cleaning fluid 516 discharged from head 240 is collected in recess 514 and returns to storage tank 544 via channel 518. By pumping the cleaning fluid 516 along the same path as formulations 310 and 316, the components of the delivery assembly are purged of residual formulations that could otherwise clog the components of delivery assembly 110.

[0119] When the cleaning cycle is complete, the base 530 can be rotated into a vertical position for removal of the delivery assembly 110. In some embodiments, the delivery assembly can be stored on the docking station after the cleaning cycle is complete. In some embodiments, the docking station includes a power supply (not shown) that charges the delivery assembly 110 when the delivery assembly is mounted on the docking station.

[0120] Figure 24 shows another embodiment of a docking station 600 similar to the docking station 500 shown in Figures 21-23. For the sake of brevity, the docking station 600 will be described with the understanding that its components are similar to the corresponding components of the docking station 500 described previously, unless otherwise specified. In this respect, components of the docking station 600 indicated by the numerical reference 6XX correspond to the components of the docking station 500 indicated by the numerical reference 5XX, unless otherwise specified. For example, the recess 614 and the valve 620 of the station The 600 reception corresponds to the 514 recess and the 520 valve of the 500 reception station.

[0121] Like the docking station 500, the base 612 of the docking station 600 includes a storage tank 616 filled with cleaning fluid 644. During a cleaning cycle, the cleaning fluid 644 from the storage tank 616 is drawn into the delivery assembly 110 by the pump and discharged from the head 240 into the recess 614. Unlike the docking station 500, the recess 614 is connected to a collection tank 618 by a channel 620. The cleaning fluid discharged from the head 240 flows from the recess 614 into the collection tank 618 through the channel 620. The collected fluid 644 remains in the collection tank 618 until the user empties the collection tank. Thus, rather than reusing the cleaning fluid in the manner of the 500 docking station, the 600 docking station separates the used and unused cleaning fluid so that the cleaning fluid is not reused.

[0122] The detailed description set forth above in relation to the accompanying drawings, where similar numbers refer to similar elements, is intended to be a description of various embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is offered solely by way of example or illustration and should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the specific forms disclosed. Similarly, all the steps described herein may be interchangeable with other steps, or combinations of steps, to achieve the same or substantially similar result.

[0123] In the preceding description, specific details are presented to provide a thorough understanding of example embodiments of this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented without incorporating all the specific details. In some cases, well-known process steps have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of this disclosure. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the embodiments of this disclosure may employ any combination of features described herein.

[0124] This application may include references to directions, such as "forward," "backward," "front," "backward," "upward," "downward," "right," "left," "lateral," "median," "in," "out of," "extended," "advanced," "retracted," "proximal," "distal," "central," etc. These references, and other similar references in this application, are intended to help describe and understand the particular embodiment and are not intended to limit this disclosure to these directions or locations.

[0125] This application may also refer to quantities and numbers. Unless specifically stated, these quantities and numbers are not to be considered restrictive, but rather as examples of the possible quantities or numbers associated with this application. In this respect also, this application may use the term "plurality" to refer to a quantity or number. In this context, the term "plurality" means any number greater than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The terms "about," "approximately," etc., mean within 5% of the stated value.

[0126] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of this disclosure have been described in the preceding description. However, aspects of this disclosure that are intended to be protected should not be construed as being limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Furthermore, the embodiments described herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. It should be understood that variations and changes may be made by other means, and equivalents employed, without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such variations, changes, and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of this disclosure as claimed.

Claims

Claims

1. A formulation dispensing apparatus (100), comprising: a container (308, 314) having an opening (324) and being configured to hold a volume of formulation; and a dispensing device having a pump (190) configured to draw a formulation from the container and discharge fluid via a manifold (210) to a head (240) that includes at least one nozzle (242) and a plurality of spacing projections (248); the dispensing device further comprising a locking member configured to selectively move between a locking position and an open position, the locking member isolating the formulation in the dispensing device from ambient air when the locking member is in the locking position and allowing the pump (190) to discharge the formulation from the nozzle (242) when the locking member is in the open position.

2. The formulation delivery apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the blocking feature defines a cap (350) selectively mountable over the spacing projections (248) to releasably couple the cap (350) to the head (240), an interior surface (358) of the cap (350) blocking an outlet of each of the plurality of nozzles (242) when the cap (350) is coupled to the head (240).

3. The formulation dispensing apparatus (100) of claim 2, wherein each spacing projection (248) has an engagement feature (250) formed on one end thereof, each engagement feature (250) engaging a corresponding notch (356) formed on the cap (350) until the cap (350) is coupled to the head (240).

4. The formulation delivery apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the locking member comprises a shutter (370) which is closed in the locking position and open in the open position.

5. The formulation dispensing apparatus (100) of claim 4, wherein the shutter (370) blocks discharge of the formulation from the manifold (210) to the head (240) when the shutter (370) is in the closed position.

6. The formulation dispensing apparatus (100) of claim 4, wherein the shutter (370) moves along a linear path to alternate between the open position and the closed position.

7. The formulation delivery apparatus (100) of claim 5, wherein the shutter (370) is at least partially disposed within delivery channels (226) of the manifold (210).

8. The formulation dispensing apparatus (100) of claim 4, wherein the shutter (370) is manually movable between the open position and the closed position.

9. A docking station (500) for the formulation delivery apparatus (100) of claim 1, the apparatus (100) comprising an elongate engagement member (144) having a fluid communication channel with a pump (190) configured to draw fluid through the engagement member (144) and to discharge the fluid into a manifold (210) that supplies the fluid to at least one nozzle (242), the docking station (500) comprising: a base (530) configured to sealingly receive the engagement member (144) such that the pump (190) is in fluid engagement with a storage reservoir (544) filled with a cleaning fluid (406), wherein the pump (190) is configured to draw cleaning fluid (406) from the storage reservoir (544) and to discharge the cleaning fluid (406) into the collector (210) and through the at least one nozzle (242).

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