Application nozzle for applying a product onto a screw.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a nozzle (1') for applying a product to a screw, this nozzle (1') comprising a proximal end (11) configured to be able to be fixed on a device for distributing this product and an opposite distal end (12), this nozzle (1') having a longitudinal axis (X-X').This nozzle is notable in that it comprises at least one product distribution chamber (2) having the form of a cavity opening at the distal end (12) of the nozzle and configured to receive the shank of a screw, a first product introduction chamber (3) opening at the proximal end (11) of the nozzle, and a plurality of product distribution channels (4') connecting the first introduction chamber (3) to the distribution chamber (2), each distribution channel (4') opening into the distribution chamber (2) through at least one distribution orifice (41'), and these distribution orifices (41') being arranged on the periphery of said distribution chamber (2). Figure for the abbreviation: Fig. 6.

Description

Title of the invention: Tip for applying a product to a screw. FIELD OF THE INVENTION.

[0001] The present invention relates to a tip for applying a product, in particular grease, to a screw. The invention finds a particular application in the application of graphite mineral grease. STATE OF THE ART.

[0002] In a known manner, a screw comprises a rod, threaded over at least part of its height from its end, this rod being provided with a screw head. Before assembling two parts using a screw, it is common to apply a product, in particular grease, to the thread of the screw, or even to the lower face of the head of the screw (i.e. the one closest to the rod), to allow good transmission of the force when tightening it, in particular using a torque wrench.

[0003] In the state of the art, it is known to apply this grease using a brush. However, such a technique does not allow the quantity of grease applied to be controlled, nor its distribution on the screw and, furthermore, it is not reproducible from one screw to another.

[0004] We also know how to apply grease to the screw using a syringe, but the quantity of product delivered is difficult to control.

[0005] However, the quantity of product (grease) applied to a screw has an impact on the final tightening torque applied. Given the new requirements for compliance with tightening torques, it is imperative to control the application of grease. STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION.

[0006] The invention therefore aims to propose a tip for applying a product for a device for dispensing this product, which allows reproducible application and distribution of this product on a screw.

[0007] More specifically, such a tip must allow the application of the product to the thread of the screw and possibly also to the underside of the head of the screw.

[0008] To this end, the invention relates to a tip for applying a product to a screw, this tip comprising a proximal end configured to be able to be fixed to a device for dispensing this product and an opposite distal end, this tip having a longitudinal axis.

[0009] According to the invention, this tip comprises at least one product distribution chamber, this distribution chamber having the shape of a cavity opening at the distal end of the tip and configured to be able to receive the rod of a screw, a first product introduction chamber opening at the distal end proximal to the tip, and a plurality of product distribution channels connecting the first introduction chamber to the distribution chamber, each distribution channel opening into the distribution chamber through at least one distribution orifice and these distribution orifices being arranged on the periphery of said distribution chamber.

[0010] Thanks to these characteristics of the invention, and in particular to the presence of the distribution channels which allow the product to be distributed uniformly, the application of the product can be carried out in a controlled, uniform and reproducible manner from one screw to another.

[0011] In addition, this tip makes it possible to limit the difficulty of the screw greasing operation for the operator in charge of this manipulation.

[0012] According to other advantageous and non-limiting characteristics of the invention, taken alone or in combination:

[0013] - the product distribution channels have a helical shape wound around the longitudinal axis of the tip;

[0014] - the product distribution channels extend axially;

[0015] - the cavity of the distribution chamber is cylindrical and in that it comprises at at least one guide zone whose diameter is smaller than that of the rest of said cavity;

[0016] - the distal end of the tip comprises a flat posterior face and the tip comprises a second product introduction chamber, which opens at the proximal end of the tip, and a plurality of product distribution channels, each distribution channel opening at one of its two ends into the second introduction chamber and at its other end onto the flat posterior face of the distal end of the tip, via a distribution orifice;

[0017] - the second product introduction chamber is annular and is arranged around from the first product introduction chamber and coaxially with it.;

[0018] - the tip comprises a chamber for recovering excess product, and at least a recovery channel connecting one of the product distribution channels to said surplus product recovery chamber;

[0019] - the surplus product recovery chamber is annular and is arranged around the tip;

[0020] - the surplus product recovery chamber is removably mounted on the tip;

[0021] - the tip is provided with a plug for closing the distribution chamber of the product and in that this plug and the distal end of the tip are provided with complementary coupling means, such as a thread and a tapping;

[0022] - the proximal end of the tip is provided with a fixing device on the dispensing device for this product, such as a tap or thread. DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0023] Other characteristics, aims and advantages of the invention will emerge from the following description, which is purely illustrative and non-limiting, and which must be read in conjunction with the appended drawings in which:

[0024] [Fig. 1] is a longitudinal sectional view of a first embodiment of the application tip according to the invention.

[0025] [Fig.2] is a longitudinal sectional view of a variant of this first mode of rea lization of the tip.

[0026] [Fig.3] is a cross-sectional view of the tip of [Fig.2], taken in the plane cutting line passing through line III-III on this [Fig.2].

[0027] [Fig.4] is a longitudinal sectional view of a second embodiment of the application tip according to the invention, on which the screw inserted into the tip is shown.

[0028] [Fig.5] is a perspective and transparent view of the tip of [Fig.4].

[0029] [Fig.6] is a longitudinal sectional view of the tip of [Fig.4], in which the tip is closed with a plug and the screw has been removed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION.

[0030] The application tip of a product according to the invention is configured to be able to be fixed to a device for dispensing this product, such as a cartridge gun, for example.

[0031] Furthermore, this tip is configured to allow the application of the product to a screw. In [Fig.4], we can see such a screw A, which comprises a screw head B and a screw rod C. This rod C is threaded over at least part of its length from its end.

[0032] The product that can be dispensed using this tip is in particular grease and in particular graphite mineral grease. This type of grease makes it possible to reduce friction between mechanical parts, for example a screw, and facilitates the screwing and unscrewing of the latter. First embodiment.

[0033] A first embodiment of the invention will now be described in connection with [Fig.l].

[0034] In this figure, we can see an application tip 1, which has a longitudinal axis X-X'. This tip 1 has two ends, namely a so-called "proximal" end 11, because it is the one that is configured to be able to be fixed on said dispensing device (not shown in the figure) and an opposite end, called "distal" 12.

[0035] The tip 1 comprises at least one distribution chamber 2 for the product on the thread of the screw to be treated. The distribution chamber 2 has the shape of a cavity. Preferably, this cavity is oblong. Also preferably, this chamber 2 is a cylindrical cavity, but it could be of square or rectangular section. Also preferably, this cavity is axial, that is to say that it extends along the axis X-X'.

[0036] The chamber 2 is closed by a bottom 20 and it opens at the distal end 12 of the tip through an opening 21.

[0037] The distribution chamber 2 is configured to receive the rod C of the screw A. For this purpose, its diameter and its length are adapted to the dimensions of the screw.

[0038] Advantageously and as can be seen in [Fig. 1], the distribution chamber 2 comprises at least one distal guide zone 22 of the rod C, or even also a proximal guide zone 23 of the rod C. These two guide zones 22 and 23 have a diameter slightly smaller than that of the rest of the cylindrical chamber 2.

[0039] The distal guide zone 22 preferably extends from the opening 21 towards the inside of the tip 1 and the proximal guide zone 23 extends close to the bottom 20. In [Fig. 4], in which a screw A is shown inserted into the tip, it can be seen that these guide zones 22 and 23 come into contact with the rod C, while the middle part 24 of the chamber 2, located between the zones 22 and 23, is slightly spaced from the rod C of the screw.

[0040] These guide zones 22, 23 facilitate the insertion and removal of the screw rod in the distribution chamber 2.

[0041] Furthermore, preferably, the distal end 12 ends in a flat posterior face 120. Thus, when the screw A is introduced into the end piece 1, its head B, more precisely the lower face B1 of this head B comes into abutment against the flat posterior face 120.

[0042] The nozzle 1 also comprises a first introduction chamber 3 for the product. The chamber 3 is closed by a bottom 30.

[0043] This chamber 3 opens at the proximal end 11 of the tip, through an opening 31. Preferably, the proximal end 11 of the tip ends in a flat front face 110 and the opening 31 opens onto this face 110.

[0044] Preferably, the first introduction chamber 3 has the shape of an oblong and axial cavity, that is to say that it extends along the axis X-X'.

[0045] The tip 1 also comprises several distribution channels for the product to be applied, which connect the first introduction chamber 3 to the distribution chamber 2. The first chamber 3 is therefore in fluid communication with the distribution chamber 2.

[0046] In the embodiment shown in [Fig.l], these distribution channels are axial or substantially axial and bear the numerical reference 4.

[0047] Each distribution channel 4 opens into the distribution chamber 2 via at least one distribution orifice 41. Preferably, these distribution orifices 41 are arranged on the periphery of the chamber 2, more preferably distributed regularly around the circumference of the chamber 2, which makes it possible to distribute the product uniformly around the entire circumference of the screw rod.

[0048] Also preferably, the distribution orifices 41 open into the side wall of the chamber 2 and close to the bottom 20, so as to be opposite the tip of the screw A when the latter is introduced into the chamber 2, (see [Fig. 4]). Thus, as the product is pushed into the nozzle by the application device, beads of product emerging from the orifices 41 are distributed uniformly over the entire height of the screw rod.

[0049] In addition, each distribution channel 4 opens into the introduction chamber 3 via a sampling orifice 42. Preferably also, these sampling orifices 42 are distributed regularly around the circumference of the chamber 3, which makes it possible to sample the product to be applied uniformly. Preferably also, the sampling orifices 42 are formed close to the bottom 30 of the chamber 3.

[0050] In another embodiment shown in Figures 4 to 6, each distribution channel has a helical shape and then bears the reference numeral 4'. Each channel 4' is therefore wound in a helix around the longitudinal axis X-X'. Its sampling orifice is referenced 42' and its distribution orifice 41' and they are preferably arranged on the periphery of the chambers 2 and 3, more preferably distributed respectively regularly on the circumference of the chamber 3 and on the circumference of the chamber 2, for the reasons mentioned above.

[0051] Each channel 4' could also be divided and include several distribution orifices 41'.

[0052] Furthermore, the proximal end 11 of the tip 1 comprises a fixing device 111 on a product dispensing device, such as a product cartridge gun.

[0053] In the embodiment shown in the figures, this fixing device 111 is a thread. For this purpose, the proximal end 11 of the tip comprises a cylindrical housing 112, with a central axis X-X', arranged around the introduction chamber 3 and opening onto the flat front face 110. The inner face of this housing 112 carries the thread 111. The tip 1 can thus be screwed onto the end of a dispensing device such as a product cartridge.

[0054] According to an alternative embodiment of the tip shown in Figures 2 and 3, the cylindrical outer surface 113 of the proximal end 11 is provided with a thread 115 allowing the tip 1 to be fixed to the dispensing device.

[0055] The proximal end 11 could also be provided with any other type of fixing device, such as a clipping element or a male / female assembly element, allowing it to be fixed to the product dispensing device.

[0056] In the variant of [Fig.2], it can be seen that the distribution chamber 2 can be shorter than in the embodiment of [Fig.l], (for example to process a shorter screw). In this case, the chamber 2 does not have a guide zone.

[0057] Finally, in the sectional view of [Fig.3], we can better observe the distribution channels 4, which in this embodiment example, are five in number. Use of the end piece 1.

[0058] The tip 1 is fixed (for example by screwing) on ​​the product dispensing device and the screw A to be treated is inserted into the distribution chamber 2, as explained previously. When the product to be applied is pushed into the tip, it enters the introduction chamber 3, is distributed in the different distribution channels 4 or 4' (depending on the embodiment) and thus reaches the distribution chamber 2 by being distributed over the entire circumference thereof. The product is then applied uniformly over the entire thread of the rod C of the screw A. Second embodiment.

[0059] A second embodiment of the tip, then referenced 1', will now be described in connection with figures 4 to 6.

[0060] This tip 1' not only allows the product to be applied to the thread of the screw but also to the lower face B1 of the head B of the screw.

[0061] The tip 1' differs from the previous one in that it comprises a second introduction chamber 5 for the product, which opens at the proximal end 11 of the tip (more precisely on the flat front face 110).

[0062] When the device for fixing the nozzle to the product dispensing apparatus is the thread 111, as described in [Fig. 1], then the second introduction chamber 5 is located in the extension of the housing 112 (see Figures 4 and 6). In other words, the chamber 5 is further from the face 110 than is the housing 112. When the cartridge is screwed onto the thread 111, it does not block the entire housing 112, so that the product can flow from the cartridge into the central part of the housing 112, until it reaches the second introduction chamber 5.

[0063] Preferably, the second introduction chamber 5 is annular, with a central axis X-X'. It is arranged around the first introduction chamber 3, coaxially with it.

[0064] The tip 1' also comprises several distribution channels 6 for the product. These channels 6 extend in an axial or substantially axial direction. They are arranged around the distribution chamber 2 and around the distribution channels 4 or 4'. In other words, relative to the central axis X-X' of the end piece 1', the channels 6 are arranged radially further out than the chamber 2 or the channels 4, 4'.

[0065] Each distribution channel 6 opens at one of its two ends into the second introduction chamber 5, via an evacuation orifice 61, so named because it is via this orifice 61 that the product leaves the chamber 5.

[0066] Each distribution channel 6 also opens at the other of its two ends, onto the flat front face 120 of the distal end 12 of the tip 1', via a distribution orifice 62.

[0067] Preferably, the discharge orifices 61 are distributed uniformly over the entire circumference of the second introduction chamber 5, so as to guarantee a uniform distribution of the product in all the distribution channels 6.

[0068] Similarly, preferably, the distribution orifices 62 are distributed uniformly over the entire circumference of the flat front face 120 of the distal end 12, so as to ensure uniform distribution of the product on the lower face B1 of the screw, (see [Fig.4]).

[0069] The second introduction chamber 5 is separate from the first introduction chamber 3, which allows for better distribution of the product respectively in the channels 6 and 4 or 4'. In addition, the separation of the flow of grease in the different channels makes it possible to control the path taken by the grease so that it arrives in the required quantity in the distribution chamber 2 and at the front face 120 simultaneously. Using the 1' tip.

[0070] The end piece 1' is fixed (for example by screwing) on ​​the product dispensing device and the screw A to be treated is inserted into the distribution chamber 2, as explained previously.

[0071] When the product to be applied is pushed into the nozzle, it enters both the first introduction chamber 3 and the second introduction chamber 5. The product then flows simultaneously into the distribution channels 4' and into the distribution channels 6.

[0072] The helical shape of the distribution channels 4' is then particularly advantageous because it increases the length of these channels compared to the variant where the channels 4 are rectilinear. This helical shape makes it possible to delay the arrival of the product in the distribution chamber 2 while the rest of the product passes through the distribution channels 6 to the orifices 62 of the distal end 12.

[0073] In other words, the arrival of the product on the screw thread and the arrival of the product on the underside of the screw head are more synchronous.

[0074] Whatever the embodiment variant of the end piece 1 or 1', it can also be provided with a recovery chamber 7 for the surplus product (see figures 4 to 6).

[0075] Preferably, this recovery chamber 7 is annular, with a central axis X-X' and it is arranged around the tip 1, 1', more preferably around the proximal end 11 thereof.

[0076] At least one recovery channel 71 connects one of the distribution channels 4, 4' to this recovery chamber 7 and it opens into it. Thus, in the event of an overflow of product, the latter can flow back from the distribution chamber 2 to the recovery chamber 7.

[0077] Advantageously and as in the embodiment shown in the figures, the recovery chamber 7 can be removably mounted on the tip, preferably around the proximal end 11 thereof.

[0078] In this case, the recovery chamber 7 is an enclosure, delimited by an inner wall 72 whose shape matches that of the contour of the proximal end 11 and by an outer wall 73. Furthermore, the inner face 720 of the inner wall 72 is provided with a thread 73, while the outer face 113 of the proximal end 11 is provided with a thread 114 cooperating with the thread 73.

[0079] The recovery chamber 7 can thus be screwed onto the proximal end 11 of the tip 1, 1' to recover the excess product or on the contrary be unscrewed, for example to be emptied and cleaned.

[0080] The removable screwing / tapping coupling could be replaced by any other type of removable coupling, for example by interlocking or clipping.

[0081] Finally, the inner wall 72 is pierced with a light 721 located opposite the recovery channel 71 to be in fluid communication with the latter.

[0082] Finally, whatever the embodiment of the nozzle 1 or 1', it can be provided with a plug 8 for closing the distribution chamber 2. This plug prevents the product remaining in said chamber 2 after a previous use from drying out.

[0083] In order to hold this plug 8 in place, the distal end 12 of the tip and this plug 8 are provided with complementary coupling means. In the embodiment shown in [Fig.6], these complementary coupling means are a thread and a tapping. The thread 121 is formed on the outer face of the distal end 12 of the tip and the tapping 80 on the inner face of the plug 8. Other complementary coupling means can be used, such as clipping or force fitting by playing on the deformability of the plug for example.

Claims

Claims

1. Tip (1, 1') for applying a product to a screw, this tip (1, 1') comprising a proximal end (11) configured to be able to be fixed to a device for dispensing this product and an opposite distal end (12), this tip (1, 1') having a longitudinal axis (X-X') and being characterized in that it comprises: - at least one distribution chamber (2) for the product, this distribution chamber (2) having the shape of a cavity opening at the distal end (12) of the tip and configured to be able to receive the rod of a screw, - a first introduction chamber (3) for the product opening at the proximal end (11) of the tip, and - a plurality of distribution channels (4, 4') for the product connecting the first introduction chamber (3) to the distribution chamber (2), each distribution channel (4, 4') opening into the distribution chamber (2) by at least one distribution orifice (41, 41') and these distribution orifices (41,41') being arranged on the periphery of said distribution chamber (2).,

2. Application tip (1, 1') according to claim 1, characterized in that the distribution channels (4, 4') of the product have a helical shape wound around the longitudinal axis (X-X') of the tip.

3. Application tip (1, 1') according to claim 1, characterized in that the distribution channels (4, 4') of the product extend axially.

4. Application tip (1') according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cavity of the distribution chamber (2) is cylindrical and in that it comprises at least one guide zone (22, 23) whose diameter is smaller than that of the rest of said cavity.

5. Application tip (1') according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distal end (12) of the tip comprises a flat rear face (120) and in that the tip (1') comprises: - a second introduction chamber (5) for the product, which opens at the proximal end (11) of the tip, and - a plurality of distribution channels (6) for the product, each distribution channel (6) opening at one of its two ends into the second introduction chamber (5) and at its other end on the flat posterior face (120) of the distal end (12) of the tip and this, by a distribution orifice (62).

6. Application tip (1') according to claim 5, characterized in that the second product introduction chamber (5) is annular and is arranged around the first product introduction chamber (3) and coaxially therewith.

7. Application tip (1, 1') according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises: - a recovery chamber (7) for the surplus product, and - at least one recovery channel (71) connecting one of the distribution channels (4, 4') of the product, to said recovery chamber (7) for the surplus product.

8. Application tip (1, 1') according to claim 7, characterized in that the recovery chamber (7) for the excess product is annular and is arranged around the tip.

9. Application tip (1, 1') according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the recovery chamber (7) for the surplus product is removably mounted on the tip.

10. Application tip (1, 1') according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is provided with a plug (8) for closing the distribution chamber (2) of the product and in that this plug (8) and the distal end (12) of the tip are provided with complementary coupling means, such as a thread (121) and a tapping (80).

11. Application tip (1, 1') according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the proximal end (11) of the tip is provided with a device for fixing to the device for dispensing this product, such as a tapping (111) or a thread (115).

Images