Formula delivery device with anti-clogging mechanism

Abstract

FORMULA DELIVERY APPARATUS with Anti-Clog Mechanism A formulation delivery apparatus (100) may be used for hair and scalp treatment, such as an apparatus used for coloring hair. The apparatus may include a delivery 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 spacing projections. The delivery device may further include a blocking member that isolates the formulation in the delivery device from ambient air when the blocking member is in the blocking position and allows the pump (190) to discharge the formulation from the nozzle (242) when the blocking member is in the open position. Figure for abstract: [Fig 3]

Description

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

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

[0002] According to one embodiment described herein, a formulation delivery device includes a container having an opening and being configured to retain a volume of formulation. The formula delivery apparatus further includes a delivery device having a pump configured to draw a formulation from the container and discharge the fluid through a manifold to a head. The head includes at least one nozzle and a plurality of spacing projections. The delivery device further includes a locking member configured to selectively move between a locking position and an open position. The locking member isolates the formulation in the delivery device from ambient air when the locking member is in the locking position and allows the pump to discharge the formulation from the nozzle when the locking member is in the open position.

[0003] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein, the blocking feature defines a cap selectively mountable over the spacer projections to releasably couple the cap to the head, an interior surface of the cap blocking an outlet of each of the plurality of nozzles when the cap is coupled to the head.

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

[0005] According to any 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] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein, the shutter blocks the discharge of formulation from the collector to the head when the shutter is in the closed position.

[0007] According to any 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 of the embodiments described herein, the shutter is at least partially disposed within distribution channels of the manifold.

[0009] According to any of the embodiments described herein, the shutter is manually movable between the open position and the closed position.

[0010] According to one embodiment described herein, a docking station is suitable for use with a formulation delivery apparatus. The apparatus includes an elongate engagement member having a fluid communication channel with a pump configured to draw fluid through the engagement member and to 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 sealingly receive the engagement member such that the pump is in fluid engagement with a storage reservoir filled with a cleaning fluid. The pump is configured to draw cleaning fluid from the storage reservoir and to discharge the cleaning fluid into the manifold and through at least one nozzle.

[0011] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein, the engaging member is disposed with a cavity of a delivery assembly, the base being sized and configured to be received within the cavity.

[0012] According to any of the embodiments described herein, the pedestal is rotatably coupled to a base.

[0013] According to any of the embodiments described herein, the storage reservoir is disposed within the base and is fluidly connected to the engagement member via a tube when the engagement member is received by the base.

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

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

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

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

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

[0019] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein, the docking station further comprises a power source configured to charge the delivery apparatus.

[0020] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein, the engaging member ruptures the membrane when the container is mounted on the engaging member, wherein piercing of the membrane causes the container to transition from a sealed state to an unsealed state.

[0021] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein, the vent opening is in fluid communication with the formulation when the engaging member is at least partially received within the container opening.

[0022] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein, the vent opening loses its seal when the engaging member ruptures the membrane.

[0023] According to any of the embodiments described herein, the container comprises a nozzle defining the opening.

[0024] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein, the container further comprises a sealing member in sealing engagement with the nozzle, the sealing member having a passage therethrough and being in fluid communication with an interior portion of the container and with the opening defined by the nozzle.

[0025] According to any of the embodiments described herein, the engagement member sealingly engages the container sealing member when the container is mounted on the engagement member.

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

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

[0028] According to any of the embodiments described herein, the engagement sealing member is an O-ring.

[0029] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein, the formulation is selected from the group consisting of permanent hair dye, semi-permanent hair dye, developer, conditioner, hair growth treatment, ROGAINE®, protein hair treatment, disulfide bond repair hair treatment, OLAPLEX®, flow-through hair treatment, and flow-through scalp treatment.

[0030] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein, the formulation delivery apparatus further comprises a second container configured to retain a volume of a second formulation and a second elongate engagement member configured to be at least partially received by the second container. The formulation delivery apparatus further comprises a manifold configured to receive the first and second formulations from the first and second containers, respectively.

[0031] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein, the formulation delivery apparatus further comprises a head assembly configured to receive a mixture of the first and second formulations from the collector and to dispense the mixture onto at least one of a user's hair and scalp.

[0032] In accordance with other embodiments described herein, a formulation delivery device includes a first container having a first opening and being configured to contain a volume of a first formulation and a first elongated engagement member having a first channel therethrough and being 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 member. A first vent opening is formed in the first engagement member and provides fluid communication between the first channel and an area outside the first engagement member when the first container is disengaged from the first engagement member. 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 member.The formulation delivery device. further comprises a pump in fluid communication with the first channel of the first engagement member for withdrawing the first formulation from the first fluid container. The formulation delivery apparatus further comprises a head in fluid communication with the pump, the head being configured to discharge the first formulation.

[0033] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein, the formulation delivery apparatus further comprises a second container having a second opening and being configured to contain a volume of a second formulation. A second elongated engagement member has a second channel therethrough 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 member. A manifold is configured to mix the first and second formulations received from the pump and to provide a mixture of the first and second formulations to the head.

[0034] In accordance with any of the embodiments described herein, a second vent opening is formed in the second engagement member and provides fluid communication between the second channel and an area outside the second engagement member when the second container is disengaged from the second engagement member. 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 member.

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

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

[0037] [Fig-1] [Fig. 1] is a perspective view of a representative embodiment of a formulation delivery device in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the device comprises a consumable assembly mounted on a delivery assembly;

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

[0039] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a sectional side view of the apparatus of [Fig.l];

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

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

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

[0043] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a sectional side view of the apparatus of [Fig.4];

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

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

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

[0047] [Fig. 11] [Fig. 11] is a partial side view of the apparatus as shown in [Fig. 3], wherein 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 made 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 consumable is mounted on the delivery assembly;

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

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

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

[0054] [Fig. 18] [Fig. 18] is a partially sectioned side view of another apparatus of providing an embodiment formulation in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, wherein a sealing feature is disengaged;

[0055] [Fig. 19] [Fig. 19] is a partially sectioned 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 the cleaning the formulation delivery apparatus shown in [Fig.l];

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

[0058] [Fig.22] [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 delivery apparatus illustrated in [Fig.l], wherein the delivery 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 apparatus. The application of 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 portion of the hair or scalp tissue. In one example, one may desire to apply a treatment formulation to a portion of the hair near the scalp, for example, when applying a hair color dye to the roots of the hair during a color maintenance procedure. In another example, one may desire the application of 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. In one example, hair coloring kits are typically used to alter the appearance of hair color or to blend gray hair, among other uses. Existing hair coloring systems may utilize two or more components that are separately packaged and then blended 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 therein may be extracted, blended together, and applied by the user.

[0063] Examples of treatment formulation 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 repair hair treatment; a fluid hair treatment; a fluid scalp treatment, and the like. Although any hair and scalp treatment formulation is suitably applied using embodiments of the apparatus described herein, this disclosure generally refers to the hair coloring formulation as an example of a treatment formulation applied by the apparatus 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 example systems, apparatuses, and / or devices of a formula delivery device that is configured to apply a treatment formulation to a targeted area of ​​the hair and / or scalp. The apparatus of the present disclosure generally includes a delivery device configured to be grasped by a user's hand, and a head having a plurality of nozzles from which the coloring 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, such that the nozzles may 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"), issued to Grez. The '940 patent teaches the application of hair coloring formulations that generally include at least one dye and a separate developer that must be mixed in controlled proportions for effective and predictable results. As used in the '940 patent and herein, the term "color formulation" generally refers to any of the dyes, developers, formulations, fluids, or any mixture thereof.

[0066] Certain components of the color formulation are known to off-gas over time. Therefore, a sealed container filled with color formulation may be at least partially filled with gas that is produced between the time the container is initially sealed and the time the color formulation is used. The mixing ratio of a color formulation may be important to the safety and efficacy of a hair coloring system, and the gas produced by the color formulation when sealed in the container can affect this ratio. In known embodiments, an apparatus may be initially used to dispense 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 the present disclosure, gases that have accumulated in sealed containers of coloring formulations are vented when the containers are initially connected to the apparatus. Thus, the desired mixing ratio of the coloring formulation is automatically maintained without wastage of coloring formulation.

[0068] Although the formula delivery device 100 and the other exemplary 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 may be used with any suitable formulation applicator configuration and for any suitable use.

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

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

[0071] Referring to the sectional views of Figures 3, 7 and 8, the consumable assembly 300 will now be described. The consumable assembly 300 allows a user to replace depleted colorant formulation containers and / or to operate different colorant formulations with the dispensing device. In this regard, the consumable assembly 300 is configured to be removably coupled to the dispensing assembly 110 to form the apparatus 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable assembly 300 includes an elongated housing 302 sized and configured to be received with the cavity 118 of the housing 112 of the dispensing assembly 110 to mount the consumable assembly to 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 apparatus 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 302 of the consumable assembly 300 includes a release button 304 that engages a detent feature 126 formed on the housing 112 of the delivery assembly 110 to releasably secure the consumable assembly to the delivery assembly when the consumable assembly is mounted thereon (see [Fig. 3]). To release the release button 304 from the detent feature 126, a user presses the release button 304 to release the release button from the detent feature, thereby removing the consumable assembly from the delivery assembly 110.In other embodiments, other attachment configurations are appropriately used, such as a snap-on, fasteners, a hook-and-loop fastener, a releasable adhesive, magnets, and the like. Additional attachment features are also within the scope of the present disclosure, such as a lower notch, which may provide greater attachment force between the consumable assembly 300 and the delivery assembly 110. In other embodiments, any number or combination of attachment features is appropriately used to attach the consumable assembly 300 to the delivery assembly 110.

[0073] Still referring to Figures 3, 7 and 8, the consumable assembly 300 includes a first formulation container 308 and a second formulation container 314 disposed within the cavity 306 of the housing 302. The first and second formulation containers 308 and 314 respectively contain the first and second formulation containers 308 and 314. In some embodiments, the first formulation container 308 includes a coloring formulation such as a coloring dye, and the second formulation container 314 includes a developer. In other embodiments, a single formulation container with a coloring formulation is suitably used.

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

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

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

[0077] A sealing member 328 is positioned between the tip 322 and the pack 320. An opening 330 extends through the sealing member 328 and is sized and configured to receive an engagement member 144 of the coupler 140 in sealing engagement when the consumable assembly 300 is mounted on the dispensing 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 member 328 with both the pack 320 and the tip 322 seals the pack such that the formulation 310 contained within the pack is isolated from the ambient environment. In some embodiments, the membrane 332 is a unidirectional or bidirectional breathable membrane configured to allow outgassing of the package 320 without ingress of contaminants or egress of the contents of the package.Still, in other embodiments, the sealing member 328 includes a valve (not shown), used in conjunction with any of the embodiments herein, the valve being configured to regulate the flow rate of fluid from the packets 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 for the user to grip with one hand while operating the apparatus 100. In this regard, the housing 112 is ergonomically shaped in the illustrated embodiments. However, in other embodiments, the housing 112 is suitably of any shape to contain the internal components and provide one or more gripping surfaces for the user. In other embodiments, the consumable assembly 300 may form at least a portion of the gripping surfaces for the user. In the illustrated embodiments, the housing 112 includes a first housing portion 114 and a second housing portion 116 coupled together to at least partially define a cavity 118 therein (see [Fig. 5]). In other embodiments, the housing 112 has a unitary construction or includes three or more portions coupled together to at least partially define a cavity.

[0079] The housing 112 houses various apparatus control components, such as one or more of a pump 190 (see [Fig. 3]), a motor that drives the pump 190, a central processing 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 the like), temperature sensors, accelerometers, fluid sensors, data scanners, a sound signal generator, fluid heating sources, temperature controllers, and other suitable control components, which are not illustrated in the Figures for simplicity.In some embodiments, port 124 is suitably used to provide an interface between internal control components of device 100 and external components / systems, and / or charge the battery of device 100.

[0080] The control button 120 may be configured to enable, disable, and control features of the apparatus 100. In some embodiments, pressing the control button 120 turns on the apparatus 100 so that the coloring formulation is drawn from the formulation containers 308 and 314 (see [Fig. 8]). In these embodiments, releasing the control button 120 may stop the flow of coloring formulation. In some examples, the control button 120 may be used to initialize the apparatus 100 or place the apparatus 100 in a state to perform certain functions, such as one or more of: calculating a mixing ratio of the components of the coloring formulation; entering a cleaning or purging mode; heating the formulation; collecting data from the formulation containers, such as 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 greater pressure to the control button 120 causes a variable response, such as, for example, causing the formulation to flow faster, the nozzles to move faster, or the like. In some embodiments, various operating parameters may be controlled through the use of a smart device, such as a phone (as described in detail in U.S. Patent No. 10,694,832 issued to Grez).

[0081] Referring to Figures 3, 6 and 11-14, the coupler 140 is mounted within the housing 112 and is configured to engage the interior portions of the formulation containers 308 and 314 such 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 within the housing 112 of the dispensing assembly 110. A pair of elongated engagement members 144 extend from the base 142 into the cavity 306, and each engagement member terminates at a tip 146 opposite the base 142. Each engagement member 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 dispensing assembly 110.

[0082] As best shown in Figures 11-14, each engagement member 144 includes a channel 148 that extends through the member to a port 150 formed on the opposite side of the base 142. Each engagement member 144 may further include a sealing member 154, such as an O-ring, mounted on the outer surface of the engagement member. The sealing member 154 is sized and configured to sealingly engage an interior surface of the corresponding opening 330 through which the sealing member extends when the consumable assembly 300 is mounted on the dispensing assembly 110. One or more openings 152 (vent openings) extend radially through a portion of the engaging member 144 between the sealing member 154 and the tip 146 of the engaging member.

[0083] For each port 150 on the coupler 140, a formulation tube is attached at one end to the port and at the second end to the pump 190. In this regard, each formulation tube provides fluid communication between one of the ports 150 and an inlet of the pump 190. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable assembly 300 includes two formulation containers 308 and 314, each having a corresponding opening 324. The coupler 140 includes two elongate members 144, each elongate member corresponding to one of the openings 324 of the formulation containers 308 and 314. A first formulation tube 170 is mounted at one end to a port 150 of the coupler 140 and at a second end to a first inlet of the pump 190. Similarly, a second formulation tube 172 is mounted at one end to the other port 150 of the coupler 140 and at a second end to a second inlet of the pump 190. Accordingly, when the consumable assembly 300 is mounted to the delivery assembly 110, the interior of the first formulation container 308 is in sealed fluid communication with the first inlet of the pump, and the interior of the second formulation container 314 is in sealed fluid communication with the second inlet 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 includes a corresponding number of engagement members and ports such that each engagement member engages one of the formulation containers, and each port is in fluid communication with an inlet port of the pump 190 via a formulation tube. As a result, the interior of each formulation container is in sealed communication with an inlet port of the pump. In some embodiments, the delivery assembly 100 includes more than one pump, each pump being in sealed fluid communication with the interior of one or more formulation containers via corresponding engagement members and formulation tubes.

[0085] The pump 190 is driven by a suitable motor (not shown) and is configured to draw coloring formulations 310 and 316 from the formulation containers 308 and 314, respectively, through the 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 is in communication with a corresponding inlet port on the manifold 210. In the illustrated embodiment, a first discharge port (not shown) discharges the first formulation component 310 received from the first formulation container 308 to a first manifold inlet port 214 of the manifold 210, and a second discharge port (not shown) discharges the second formulation component 316 received from the second formulation container 314 to a second manifold inlet port 216 of the manifold.In this regard, (referring to Figures 3 and 9), the first discharge port of the pump is in sealed fluid 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 fluid 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 regard, 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 coloring formulation from the formulation containers 308 and 314 to the manifold 210.

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

[0088] In one embodiment, the manifold 210 includes a housing 212 that includes a first mixing chamber 218 arranged in series with a second mixing chamber 222. The first mixing chamber 218 receives coloring 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 coloring formulations 310 and 316 as they pass through the first mixing chamber. The coloring formulations 310 and 316 then pass into the second mixing chamber 222 and are further mixed by a second static mixer 224 disposed therein. The mixed coloring formulations 310 and 316 then move through distribution channels 226 which distribute the mixture to the nozzles 242 of the head 240.

[0089] The head 240 includes a plurality of elongated nozzles 242 extending from the manifold 210. Each elongated nozzle 242 has a channel 244 therethrough and configured to discharge the coloring formulation received from the manifold 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 dispensing 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 relative to the length of the apparatus 100.

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

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of spacer projections 248 extend substantially outwardly in the direction of the nozzles 242 from the housing 112 in one or more rows. In this regard, substantially in the direction of the nozzles 242 refers to an angle of about 25 degrees or less from the direction along the nozzles 242. In the illustrated 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 spacer projections 248 may be disposed at an angle relative to the plurality of nozzles 242. (For example, see [Fig. 4] of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 339,551)

[0092] In some embodiments, each of the spacer projections 248 has a length (measured between the housing 112 and an end of the spacer projection 248) such that the end of the spacer projection 248 and the outlet openings 246 of the nozzles 242 are substantially coplanar. In other embodiments, the spacer projections 248 have a length (from the housing 112 to the end of the spacer projection 248) such that the spacer projections 248 are longer than a length of the nozzles 242 (measured between the housing 112 and an end of the nozzles 242). In this regard, during use, the spacing projections 248 would contact an application surface, such as a localized portion of the scalp, and space the outlet opening 246 of the nozzles 242 away from the application surface to provide space for discharge of the coloring formulation through the outlet opening 246.In embodiments in which the spacer protrusions 248 are longer than the plurality of nozzles 242, the spacer protrusions 248 are about 0.1 mm to 5.0 mm longer than the length of each of the plurality of nozzles 242. In other embodiments, the spacer protrusions 248 are about 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm longer than the length of each of the plurality of nozzles 242. In other embodiments, the spacer protrusions 248 are about 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 as the user passes the appliance 100 over the surface, e.g., the scalp. In some embodiments, the plurality of nozzles 242 is configured to reciprocate the collector 210 in a direction of the row of the plurality of nozzles 242. In this regard, the collector housing 212 translates relative to the housing 112 such that the coloring formulation covers surface areas between each of the nozzles 242 as the appliance 100 passes over the surface in a direction perpendicular to the row of the plurality of nozzles 242. Therefore, the entire surface area under the plurality of nozzles 242 can be covered by the coloring formulation without having to overlap passes of the apparatus 100 over the surface. In other embodiments, the nozzles 242 of the apparatus are configured to oscillate, back and forth along the length of the nozzles 242, vibrate, or remain stationary during use. Embodiments of reciprocating heads are described in the '940 patent.

[0094] As noted above, in some embodiments, an energy source (e.g., a heat source, not shown) may be added at any location along the path of the color formulation flow to raise the temperature of the formulation, or it may be added to the apparatus 100 so that heat is transferred to the application surface, e.g., 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 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 to hair roots and / or scalp tissue. In other embodiments, the energy source is a heat source configured to heat the formulation prior to discharge from the plurality of outlet nozzles 242.

[0095] As discussed previously, some coloring formulations produce gas over time. Therefore, a sealed formulation container filled with coloring formulations may be partially filled with unwanted gas when the consumable assembly 300 is initially mounted on the delivery assembly 110. Even embodiments of containers having a bi-directional breathable membrane, as described above, may accumulate gas within the containers. As will now be described with reference to Figures 11-14, embodiments of the disclosed apparatus 100 provide 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 dispensing 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. Engagement of the consumable assembly 300 with the housing 112 of the delivery assembly aligns each engagement member 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 such that the tip 146 of the engagement member 144 is in contact with the sealing member 328 and the membrane 332 is still intact. That is, the formulation container 308 is still in a sealed configuration.

[0097] Referring now to [Fig. 13], further movement of the consumable assembly 300 into the cavity 118 causes the membrane 332 to rupture by the tip 146 of the engaging member 144. With the membrane ruptured, the formulation container is in a leaky configuration. As the consumable assembly 300 continues to move within the cavity 118, the engagement member 144 is received in the sealing engagement by the opening 330 of the sealing member 328. As a result of this sealing engagement, the channel 148 of the engagement member 144 is in sealed fluid 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 member 144 and the opening 324 of the nozzle 322. The vent opening 152 formed in the engagement member 144 opens into this gap.Therefore, the gas 312 has a path to escape from the formulation container 308 so that the container is degassed before initial use.

[0098] [Fig. 14] shows the consumable assembly 300 fully mounted on the delivery assembly 110. The engagement member 144 of the coupler 140 is in contact with the stop 326 of the tip 322, which prevents further movement of the consumable assembly 300 into the cavity of the delivery assembly 110. As previously described, the release button 304 is engaged with the detent feature 126 of the delivery assembly 110 (see [Fig. 3]) so that the consumable assembly 300 is removably coupled to the delivery assembly. The sealing member 154 (O-ring) is in sealing engagement with the tip 322 to block the vent path shown in [Fig. 13]. In some embodiments, engagement of the sealing member 328 of the formulation container 308 with the engagement member 144 covers the vent opening 152, further blocking the vent path shown in [Fig. 14].Therefore, the formulation tube 170 is in sealed fluid communication with the interior 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 apparatus 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 application is complete, the fluid formulations remain within the device components. Over time, the formulation that remains within the components can dry out, forming solid or semi-solid blockages that clog the device components. These blockages can sometimes render the devices inoperable. Other times, the devices are usable, but operate less efficiently. In this regard, the blockages can limit the flow of formulation through the devices to less than ideal rates. In addition, the blockages can increase the work required of the pumps, which can reduce their lifespan and also drain the battery(ies) more quickly.Presented below are various embodiments of anti-clog configurations that prevent and / or reduce clogging of formulation delivery devices.

[0100] Some anti-clogging systems prevent or reduce clogging by isolating the formulation from ambient air. In this regard, the formula delivery apparatus acts as a sealed container that prevents or slows the drying process undergone by formulations exposed to air.

[0101] Referring to Figures 15-17, one 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 sealingly engages the nozzles 242 to block the outlet openings 246. With the outlet openings 246 sealed, the formulation within the nozzles 242 is isolated from ambient air, which limits drying of the formulation in the nozzles 242 and reduces or eliminates clogging which is prevented or reduced.

[0102] The cap 350 includes a sidewall 352 configured to surround the head 240 and a closure 354 extending over one end of the sidewall. As best shown in [Fig. 17], the cap 350 includes notches 356 formed on its interior portion. Each notch 356 is sized and configured to receive an engagement feature 250 formed at the end of a corresponding spacer projection 248. When the cap 350 is mounted on the head 240, 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 apparatus 100 in the direction of the spacing projections 248 to elastically deform the spacing projections and / or the sidewall 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 toward the apparatus 100. As the cap 350 moves toward the apparatus 100, the spacer projections 248 and / or the sidewall 352 elastically deform until the engagement features 250 are seated within the corresponding detents 356. When the cap 350 is so positioned, the engagement features 250 cooperate with the detents 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, keyed engagement, elastic straps, or other suitable configuration.

[0104] Still with reference to [Fig. 17], the cap 350 includes an interior surface 358 configured to sealingly engage one end of each nozzle 242. Engagement of the surface 358 with the nozzle 242 blocks the outlet opening 246 of the nozzle, thereby sealing the nozzle channel 244 and isolating any formulation within the apparatus 100 from ambient air.

[0105] Referring now to Figures 18 and 19, another embodiment of a formula dispensing apparatus 100 is shown, the apparatus providing selective isolation of interior components from ambient air to reduce and / or eliminate obstruction. In one embodiment, a plurality of shutters 370 are positioned within the dispensing channels 226 of the manifold 210. The shutters 370 are configured for selective reciprocation 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 dispensing 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 formulation therein are isolated from ambient air. That is, 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 are reciprocated along a linear path to move between the open and closed positions. In other embodiments, the shutters 370 are rotary shutters. In still other embodiments, the shutters are electronically actuated or manually activated. It will be appreciated that any suitable shutter capable of selectively blocking and unblocking the nozzles 242 may be used.

[0108] Other anti-clog systems prevent or eliminate clogs by flushing out residual formula and / or existing clogs from the components of the 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 the device 100 so that the components are free of formulation until the next use.

[0109] [Fig. 20] illustrates one embodiment of a cleaning assembly 400 for use with embodiments of the apparatus 100 shown in Figures 1-14. The cleaning assembly 400 is sized and configured to be mountable to the dispensing assembly 110 in place of the consumable assembly 300. In this regard, embodiments of the cleaning assembly 400 may include the housing 302 of the consumable assembly 300 or a similarly shaped housing.

[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. Like the formulation containers 308 and 314 of the consumable assembly 300, embodiments of the cleaning container 402 may include sealing members 328 and tips 322 with openings 324 that are configured to sealingly interface with the coupler 140 of the dispensing assembly. More specifically, the openings 324 are sized and positioned to receive the engagement members 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 the 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, or other suitable fluids or combinations of fluids. In other embodiments, the cleaning container 402 may have separate containers filled with separate cleaning fluids adapted to clean the formulations 310 and 316 contained in the corresponding formulation containers 308 and 314 of the consumable assembly 300.

[0112] Figures 21-23 show one embodiment of a docking station 500 suitable for cleaning embodiments of the apparatus 100 shown in Figures 1-14. The docking station 500 includes a pedestal 530 rotatably coupled to a base 510 about an axis 542. The pedestal 530 is configured for reciprocal rotation above the axis 542 between an upright 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 the 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 sized 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 connectors 536, each having an opening 538, are positioned on the end of the insert portion 534. Each connector 536 is configured such that the opening 538 receives one of the engagement members 144 of the delivery assembly 110 to place the engagement member in fluid-sealed communication with the connector 536.

[0114] The base 510 includes a housing 512 enclosing a storage reservoir 544. The storage reservoir 544 is at least partially filled with cleaning fluid 516. A valve 520 provides one-way fluid communication between a lower portion of the storage reservoir 544 and a first end of a flexible tube 540. The valve 520 allows fluid to flow from the storage reservoir 544 to the tube 540 while preventing fluid from flowing back from the tube into the storage reservoir. Therefore, the tube 540 remains primed when the base 530 is in an upright position, even when the dispensing assembly 110 is removed.

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

[0116] A recess 514 is formed in a top portion of the base 510. The recess 514 is sized and positioned so that when the dispensing assembly 110 is mounted on the base 530, and the base is in a horizontal position, the head 240 of the dispensing 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 reservoir 544. In some embodiments, the channel 518 slopes downward toward the storage reservoir 544 such that fluid in the recess 514 flows into the storage reservoir 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 apparatus 100. The delivery assembly 110 is mounted on the base 530 while the base is in an upright position. That is, the delivery assembly 110 is positioned above the insert portion 534 such 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 downward such that the insert portion 534 moves into the cavity 118 until the one or more engagement members 144 are in fluid-tight engagement 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 reservoir 544 can be withdrawn through the valve 520 and the tube 540 by the pump 190.

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

[0119] When the cleaning cycle is complete, the base 530 can be rotated to an upright 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 source (not shown) that charges the delivery assembly 110 when the delivery assembly is mounted on the docking station.

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

[0121] Like the docking station 500, the base 612 of the docking station 600 includes a storage reservoir 616 filled with cleaning fluid 644. During a cleaning cycle, the cleaning fluid 644 from the storage reservoir 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 reservoir 618 by a channel 620. The cleaning fluid discharged from the head 240 flows from the recess 614 into the collection reservoir 618 through the channel 620. The collected fluid 646 remains in the collection reservoir 618 until the user empties the collection reservoir. Thus, rather than reusing the cleaning fluid in the manner of the docking station 500, the docking station 600 separates the used and unused cleaning fluid so that the cleaning fluid is not reused.

[0122] The detailed description set forth above in connection with the accompanying drawings, where like numerals refer to like elements, is intended to be a description of various embodiments of the present 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 precise forms disclosed. Also, any steps described herein may be interchangeable with other steps, or combinations of steps, to achieve the same or a substantially similar result.

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

[0124] The present application may include references to directions, such as "forward," "backward," "front," "rear," "upward," "downward," "right," "left," "lateral," "medial," "in," "out," "extended," "advanced," "retracted," "proximal," "distal," "central," etc. These references, and other similar references in the present application, are intended to assist in describing and understanding the particular embodiment and are not intended to limit the present disclosure to these directions or locations.

[0125] The present application may also refer to quantities and numbers. Unless specifically indicated, these quantities and numbers should not be considered as restrictive, but as examples of the possible quantities or numbers associated with the present application. In this regard also, the present application may use the term "plurality" to denote a quantity or number. In this regard, the term "plurality" means any number greater than one, for example two, three, four, five, etc. The term "about", "approximately", etc. means plus or minus 5% of the indicated value.

[0126] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of the present disclosure have been described in the foregoing description. However, aspects of the present disclosure, which 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 appreciated that variations and changes may be made by others, and equivalents employed, without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such variations, changes, and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of the present 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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