Formula container with secondary vent valve

Abstract

SECONDARY DEGASING VALVE FORMULA CONTAINER Assembly with secondary degassing component (124). A formula container assembly includes a formula container comprising a container chamber and a container outlet; a primary valve (123) comprising a primary valve inlet (402) and a primary valve outlet (404); and a secondary valve (124) comprising a secondary valve inlet (406) and a secondary valve outlet (408), the primary valve inlet (402) and the secondary valve inlet (406) being in fluidic communication with the container chamber. Figure for abbreviation: Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Container with a secondary degassing valve SCOPE OF DISCLOSURE

[0001] This application relates to material storage containers. In one embodiment, the material storage container contains a cosmetic formula and may be in the form of a formula container. In this or other embodiments, the material storage container includes a primary valve for dispensing the material stored in the container and a secondary or vent valve for venting gas from the material storage container, such as that resulting from the degassing of a cosmetic. This disclosure also relates to formula container assemblies with secondary vent valve components. SUMMARY

[0002] The following summary of this disclosure is intended to introduce various concepts in a simplified form, which are described in more detail in the detailed description provided below. This summary is not intended to designate essential features of this disclosure, nor to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0003] Aspects of this disclosure relate to formula container assemblies with secondary degassing valve components. In one embodiment, the formula container assembly includes: a formula container comprising a container chamber and a container outlet; a primary valve comprising a primary valve inlet and a primary valve outlet; and a secondary valve comprising a secondary valve inlet and a secondary valve outlet, the primary valve inlet and the secondary valve inlet being in fluidic communication with the container chamber.

[0004] In one embodiment, the formula container is a flexible formula package. The container chamber includes a formula fluid, the formula fluid comprising a liquid formula fluid and a gaseous formula fluid. In some embodiments, the formula fluid emits the gaseous formula fluid.

[0005] In one embodiment, the formula container assembly includes a valve assembly, the valve assembly comprising the primary valve and the secondary valve. In other embodiments, the formula container assembly includes a container gripping insert configured to fit into the container outlet and receive the valve assembly.

[0006] In one embodiment, the container assembly includes a primary flow channel with a primary flow inlet and a secondary flow channel with a secondary flow inlet. In some embodiments, the primary flow inlet and the secondary flow inlet are both coterminal with an inner portion of the container gripping insert. In one embodiment, the internal diameter of the primary flow channel is greater than the internal diameter of the secondary flow channel.

[0007] In one embodiment, the secondary valve is configured to open (i.e., allow fluid flow from the secondary valve inlet to the secondary valve outlet) when the fluid pressure in the secondary valve inlet relative to the external air pressure exceeds a burst pressure. For example, when pressure is applied to the formula container, the fluid pressure in the secondary flow channel increases and opens the secondary valve, thus allowing the gaseous formula fluid to be discharged from the formula container through the secondary valve outlet.

[0008] In embodiments, the burst pressure exceeds a latent fluid pressure of liquid formula when the formula container assembly is held upside down, so as to prevent leakage of the formula from the formula container assembly.

[0009] In some embodiments, the burst pressure is in a range of approximately 0.2 psi to approximately 5 psi. In some embodiments, the secondary valve is an umbrella valve.

[0010] In embodiments, the formula container assembly includes a protective cap configured to hermetically and removably close an exterior of the secondary valve outlet. Description of the drawings

[0011] The foregoing aspects and many related advantages of this disclosure will be more readily appreciated as they are better understood with reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] [Fig. 1 A] [Fig. 1 A] is a front perspective view of an example of a formulation cartridge according to one or more aspects of this disclosure;

[0013] [Fig.1B] [Fig.1B] is a rear perspective view of the formulation cartridge of [Fig.1A];

[0014] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is an exploded rear perspective view of the formulation cartridge of [Fig.1A];

[0015] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a top perspective view of part of the cartouche of formulation of [Fig.1A];

[0016] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a cross-sectional view of the formulation cartridge represented on the [Fig.3] taken along lines 4-4;

[0017] [Fig. 5] [Fig. 5] is an exploded side view of part of the cartridge of formulation of [Fig.3];

[0018] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a front perspective view of an example assembly formula container according to one or more aspects of this disclosure, the formula container assembly being suitable for use in the formulation cartridge of Figure 1;

[0019] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a cross-sectional view of the assembly containing formula of [Fig.6], taken along lines 7-7 of [Fig.6];

[0020] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] is a front perspective view of another example of a cartouche of formulation according to one or more aspects of this disclosure;

[0021] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] is a top perspective view of part of the cartouche of formulation of [Fig.8];

[0022] [Tables 1] 100 Formulation cartridge 102 Handle part 104 Refill unit 106 Tray part 110 Front body part 112 Cartridge release mechanism 113 Cartridge release mechanism 114 First formula pack 116 Second formula pack 118 First formula fluid 120 Second formula fluid 123 Primary valve 124 Secondary valve 125 Tertiary valve 126 Shell 128 Rear body part 132 Valve frame 135 First half 136 Second half 138 Encryption chip 140 Valve engagement unit 142 Engagement components 144 Coupling tab 146 Protective cap 148 Primary valve nozzle 150 Tertiary valve nozzle 402 Primary valve inlet 404 Primary valve outlet 406 Secondary valve inlet 408 Secondary valve outlet 410 Formula pack 412 Pack chamber 414 Package outlet 416 Valve assembly 418 Container gripping insert 420 Primary flow channel 422 Secondary flow channel 600 Formula package assembly800 Formulation cartridge 802 Handle part 804 Refill unit 806 Tray part 810 Front body part 812 Cartridge release mechanism 813 Cartridge release mechanism 823 Primary valve 824 Secondary valve 825 Tertiary valve 835 First half 836 Second half 848 Primary valve nozzle 850 Tertiary valve nozzle Detailed description

[0023] The detailed description below, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings on which the same numbers refer to the same elements, is intended to describe various embodiments of the disclosed subject matter and should not be construed as representing the only possible embodiments. The embodiments described in this disclosure are provided solely by way of example or illustration and should not necessarily be interpreted as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples The proposals presented here are not intended to be exhaustive nor to limit the subject matter to the specific forms disclosed.

[0024] The embodiments of this disclosure generally relate to a formulation container assembly. Fluid containers, such as pouches, packets, etc., are practical means of transporting fluids through commercial supply chains and of storing fluids intended for use in various devices. These fluid containers may include, for example, fluid packets, such as formulation packets used in the cosmetics industry, ink packets used in the printing industry, liquid food additives used in the food processing and production industry, and the like.

[0025] A manufacturer can fill a fluid container, such as a fluid pack, with a desired fluid, and then distribute such a pack to an end user. Once the end user has received the fluid pack, it can be installed in a device to access the fluids inside. When the end user has used the contents of the fluid pack, the fluid pack can be discarded or returned to the manufacturer or a remanufacturer for refilling. One advantage of this arrangement is that the end user can reuse a part of a device multiple times, considering the fluids inside as a consumable element of a larger system.

[0026] Since fluid containers, such as fluid packs, are hermetically sealed against the external environment during transport, they can prevent messy spills or the loss of a deliverable fluid. Furthermore, such an airtight seal against the environment can prevent fluid degradation, such as that which can occur due to oxidation with atmospheric oxygen, or evaporation or loss of volatile fluids over time.

[0027] While many fluids can thus be protected against external degradation for use by the end user in such a sealed configuration, there are many fluids that undergo self-degradation inside a sealed fluid container, such as a sealed fluid pack. For example, some fluids undergo outgassing or decomposition reactions over time, even in the absence of contact with an external environment. In such cases, these undesirable side reactions can lead to the accumulation of gas inside the fluid container, thus requiring the user to first purge the excess gas from the fluid container before the liquid fluid can be effectively accessed. This can lead to frustration for the user who must engage in a lengthy preparation process before the fluid container can be used. effectively used and can complicate the use of fluid containers when coupled to particular devices, such as peristaltic pumps, etc., which do not function properly when exposed to mixtures of gas and liquid.

[0028] Consequently, there is a need for improved devices that allow for the rapid, easy, and clean purging of fluid containers, such as fluid packs, containing liquids undergoing degassing. The embodiments of this disclosure meet these needs or other needs that have long been unmet in art.

[0029] This disclosure provides examples of formulation container assemblies, such as one suitable for use with a formulation cartridge 100 or a formulation cartridge 600 (described in more detail herein with reference to Figures IA, IB, 2 and 6). However, it should be understood that any of the formulation container assemblies disclosed herein can contain any type of non-gaseous fluid and can be used in any type of apparatus, such as a device useful in the industries identified above.

[0030] If we look first at Figures IA to 3, an embodiment of a formulation cartridge 100 is shown. The formulation cartridge 100 is an example of a type of formulation cartridge that is compatible with any of the formulation delivery systems, formulation delivery devices, and formulation product lines described in detail in US Patent Application No. 18 / 060 258, published May 30, 2024.

[0031] Figures IA and IB are perspective views, front and rear, respectively, of the formulation cartridge 100. The formulation cartridge 100 is a sustainable embodiment specifically designed to reduce waste and environmental impact, while offering a user-friendly experience. To this end, the formulation cartridge 100 includes two main components: a handle portion 102 and a disposable formulation cartridge refill unit 104 (hereinafter simply referred to as the "refill unit 104") configured to slide reversibly into the handle portion 102. Historically, known cartridges were designed to be entirely discarded after the formulation they contained was exhausted, resulting in significant waste and higher consumption costs.

[0032] Unlike known cartridges, the formulation cartridge 100 is constructed so that the handle portion 102 can be reused indefinitely and the refill unit 104 can be easily replaced after the stored formulation is exhausted. Furthermore, the refill unit 104 can be configured to be disassembled into smaller components, some of which can be recycled in some embodiments and discarded in others. Thus, the Formulation 100 cartridge uses an innovative structure to reduce waste and improve the user experience.

[0033] The handle portion 102 is designed, dimensioned, and manufactured to be repeatedly inserted into the cartridge cavity of the formulation delivery device. Therefore, the handle portion 102 is made of ABS plastic or a similar rigid polymer or other material and comprises a hollow handle portion 102 configured to receive the refill unit 104 inside and a tray portion 106 extending away from the handle portion 102. The handle portion 102 is a two-piece assembly in the representative embodiment shown (although it may be a single piece in other embodiments) and is designed and dimensioned such that it forms a continuous extension of the handle of the formulation delivery device when fully inserted into its cartridge cavity.The tray portion 106 extends beyond the handle portion 102 and has a U-shaped configuration to support the refill unit 104 (e.g., the front body portion 110). To facilitate secure attachment and easy removal, the handle portion 102 includes a coupling means for coupling the formulation cartridge 100 to a reusable handle of a formulation dispensing device. A representative coupling means includes a cartridge release mechanism 112 (e.g., a latch) formed in the handle portion 102, which engages with the formulation dispensing device after correct and complete insertion, and a cartridge release mechanism 113 (e.g., a latch) formed in the valve frame 132.

[0034] Thus, the configuration of the formulation cartridge 100 allows the consumer to use many different formulations in the same formulation dispensing device. A representative formulation cartridge 100 is described below.

[0035] In one representative embodiment, the formulation product line includes a hair dye formulation and a scalp treatment formulation. In other representative embodiments, the formulation product line includes at least two, three, four, five, six, seven, or eight of the following different formulations, each stored in the same type of formulation cartridge: a permanent hair dye and developer; a semi-permanent hair dye and developer; a shampoo; a conditioner; a hair growth treatment, such as minoxidil; a protein hair treatment; a disulfide bond repair hair treatment; or a liquid scalp treatment. In another representative embodiment, the formulation product line includes any one of the above combinations, in addition to an optional cleaning cartridge of the same type as the Formulation 100 cartridge. In one or more embodiments, the developer is selected from peroxides, persulfates, perborates, percarbonates, alkali metal bromates, ferricyanides, peroxygenated salts, or mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the developer includes at least one redox enzyme, such as laccases, peroxidases, and 2-electron oxidoreductases, such as uricase, when appropriate in the presence of their respective donor or cofactor. Atmospheric oxygen may also be an oxidizing component.

[0036] In some embodiments, the developer is hydrogen peroxide. In various embodiments, the hydrogen peroxide may be present in an aqueous solution with a concentration ranging from 1 to 40 volumes, such as 5 to 40 volumes, 5 to 30 volumes, or 5 to 20 volumes, for example. In some embodiments, the oxidizing component is a developer composition based on 20 V, 30 V, or 40 V hydrogen peroxide.

[0037] In one or more embodiments, the developer is a persulfate and / or a monopersulfate such as, for example, potassium persulfate, sodium persulfate, ammonium persulfate, and mixtures thereof. In one or more embodiments, the second liquid formulations are selected from hydrogen peroxide, potassium persulfate, sodium persulfate, or mixtures thereof.

[0038] In various embodiments, the developer may be present in a developer composition in an amount ranging from approximately 0.05% to approximately 50% by weight, such as approximately 0.1% to approximately 30% by weight, approximately 0.1% to approximately 20% by weight, approximately 1% to approximately 20%, approximately 1% to approximately 15%, approximately 1% to approximately 12%, approximately 3% to approximately 20%, approximately 3% to approximately 15%, approximately 3% to approximately 12%, approximately 5% to approximately 20%, approximately 5% to approximately 15%, approximately 5% to approximately 12%, approximately 7% to approximately 20%, approximately 7% to approximately 15%, approximately 7% to approximately 12%, approximately 9% to approximately 20%, and approximately 9% to about 15%, or about 9% to about 12% by weight, relative to the total weight of the developer composition.

[0039] The developer composition may contain, for example, at least one solvent, such as water, organic solvents, or mixtures thereof. Suitable organic solvents for use in the developer composition, alone or in mixture with water, include, but are not limited to, ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, propanol, benzyl alcohol, phenylethyl alcohol, glycols and glycol ethers, such as propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, ethylene glycol monomethyl, monoethyl, or monobutyl ether, propylene glycol and its ethers, such as propylene glycol monomethyl ether, butylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol alkyl ethers, such as diethylene glycol monoethyl ether and monobutyl ether, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, hexylene glycol, propanediol, glycerin, hydrocarbons such as linear chain hydrocarbons, mineral oil, polybutene, hydrogenated polyisobutene, hydrogenated polydecene, polydecene, squalane, petrolatum, isoparaffins, or mixtures thereof.

[0040] Organic solvents for use in developer compositions may be volatile or non-volatile compounds. The organic solvent may, for example, be present in an amount ranging from approximately 0.5% to approximately 70% by weight, such as approximately 2% to approximately 60% by weight, such as approximately 5% to approximately 50% by weight, relative to the total weight of the developer composition.

[0041] Developer compositions may optionally include other components commonly used in developer compositions, such as, for example, rheology modifiers, chelators, fatty substances, ceramides, pH correctors, preservatives, perfumes, surfactants, etc.

[0042] The developer composition may be in the form of, for example, a powder, a gel, a liquid, a foam, a lotion, a cream, a light foam, or an emulsion. In one embodiment, the developer composition is aqueous and is in the form of a liquid, a cream, or an emulsion. In another embodiment, the developer composition is anhydrous or substantially anhydrous.

[0043] In an embodiment where the developer composition is liquid, for example aqueous, the developer composition may have a viscosity ranging from about 250 to about 2000 cps, such as, for example, about 500 to about 2500 cps, about 500 to about 2000 cps, about 500 to about 1500 cps, about 600 to about 1300 cps, or about 650 to about 1200 cps when measured at 25 °C using a #4 spindle at 100 rpm.

[0044] As illustrated in Figures IA and IB, the formulation cartridge 100 has an elongated shape and dimensions configured to allow its insertion into a handle of the formulation dispensing device, in particular into a cartridge cavity in the handle. In one embodiment of a formulation dispensing system, the elongated outer casing has a different construction between the formulation cartridge 100 containing a formulation and the cleaning cartridge, but with a common shape and dimensions. For example, in one embodiment, the formulation cartridge 100 containing a formulation has the construction of the partially recyclable embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 1A] and the [Fig.1B], while the cleaning cartridge has a similar shape and dimensions, but different materials and components.

[0045] With further reference to Figures 1A to 3, the formulation cartridge 100 includes a plurality of liquid outlet nozzles 148, 150, which are sized and positioned at a distal (forward) end of the formulation cartridge 100 in a configuration that fluidically connects to a corresponding plurality of liquid inlets (e.g., first formulation inlets). In one embodiment, the liquid outlet nozzles include valves (such as the primary valve 123 and the tertiary valve 125, as discussed in more detail here with reference to [Fig. 3] and [Fig. 4]) for formulation containers, receptacles, etc. (e.g., pouches or sachets) arranged in the formulation cartridge 100.

[0046] The formulation cartridge 100 also includes a protective cap 146, best illustrated in [Fig. 3], which is coupled to a gas outlet nozzle (hidden in Figures IA to 3). In one embodiment, the gas outlet nozzle is sized and positioned along a distal (forward) end of the formulation cartridge 100 in a configuration that connects fluidically, for example, to a corresponding plurality of liquid inlets (e.g., first formulation inlets), such as liquid inlets that connect fluidically to the primary outlet nozzle 148 via the primary valve 123. In one embodiment, the gas outlet nozzle includes a secondary valve 124 coupled to a formulation container or packet disposed in the formulation cartridge 100.The primary valve 123 and examples of the secondary valve 124 are described in more detail here with respect to figures 4 and 5, and 8 and 9.

[0047] A representative formulation cartridge 100, which is configured to be inserted into the formulation delivery device and to store a first formulation and a second formulation, is described in more detail below.

[0048] Referring now to [Fig. 2], an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a formulation cartridge 100 is shown. The refill unit 104 of the formulation cartridge 100 generally includes a refill module comprising a shell 126 surrounding at least one formulation container or receptacle. As used herein, the term "formulation container" means any container for a formulation, such as a fluid pack, fluid pouch, fluid tube, fluid cartridge, or other fluid receptacle. In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 2], the refill module includes a first formulation container, called the first formula pack 114, and a second formulation container, called the second formula pack 116, and a valve frame 132 coupled to the refill module, for example, a front body part 110 of the shell 126. The first formula pack 114 and the second formula pack 116 contain... respectively a first fluid of formula 118 and a second fluid of formula 120. Fluids 118 and 120 are not shown in [Fig. 2] for ease of illustration. The refill unit 104 may optionally include a pack sleeve.

[0049] Examples of the first formula packet 114 and the second formula packet 116 each have a volume of approximately 40 ml to approximately 70 ml, approximately 50 ml to approximately 60 ml, approximately 40 ml to approximately 65 ml, approximately 40 ml to approximately 60 ml, approximately 40 ml to approximately 55 ml, approximately 40 ml to approximately 50 ml, approximately 45 ml to approximately 70 ml, approximately 50 ml to approximately 70 ml, approximately 55 ml to approximately 70 ml, approximately 60 ml to approximately 70 ml, or approximately 55 ml. In one embodiment, the first formula packet 114 and the second formula packet 116 have different volumes. In one embodiment, the refill unit 104 stores only one formulation container.

[0050] The first fluid of formula 118 and the second fluid of formula 120 may be any of the formulations described herein, for example, a permanent hair dye°; a semi-permanent hair dye0; a developer; a conditioner0; a hair growth treatment, such as minoxidil0; a protein hair treatment0; a disulfide bond repairing hair treatment0; a liquid hair treatment; a liquid scalp treatment, or similar, or other formulations. In one embodiment, the first fluid of formula 118 and the second fluid of formula 120 are different. For example, in one embodiment, the first fluid of formula 118 is a hair dye and the second fluid of formula 120 is a developer.In another embodiment, the first fluid of formula 118 and the second fluid of formula 120 are identical (for example, a conditioner or a scalp treatment formulation).

[0051] Each formula pack 114, 116 includes a pack containing a formulation and a valve-forming means enabling the selective fluidic coupling of the refill unit to a dispensing nozzle unit of a formulation delivery device when the formulation cartridge 100 is received in the portable formulation dispensing device. Representative valve-forming means include the valves 123, 125 (see [Fig. 3]) through which the formulation exits the formula packs 114, 116. Representative formulation containers, such as formula packs, are described in International Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 067336A2, published April 4, 2019, and US Patent Application Publication No. 2021 / 0196021A1, published July 1, 2021.

[0052] Referring again to [Fig. 2], the shell 126 has an elongated shape dimensioned to be received in the reusable handle portion 102. The shell 126 surrounds and protects the first packet of formula 114 and the second packet of formula 116 and engages with the valve frame 132 (described below). Thus, the shell 126 plays the role, for example, of packaging that protects the formula packets 114, 116 during trading before loading into the formulation dispensing device.

[0053] In some embodiments, the shell 126 has a total length between 150 mm and 250 mm (for example, 175 mm to 225 mm, 185 mm to 215 mm, 195 mm to 205 mm, or 200 mm) and a maximum cross-sectional dimension of 25 mm to 50 mm (for example, 30 mm to 45 mm, 35 mm to 40 mm, or 36 mm). The shell 126 has a rear body portion 128 and a slender front body portion 110, for example, a neck portion, extending away from the rear body portion 128. The rear body portion 128 and the slender front body portion 110 generally align in a common longitudinal direction to allow assembly with the reusable handle portion 102, and to allow insertion into the cartridge cavity of the formulation delivery device.In one embodiment, the shell 126 is constructed at least partially from a recyclable or recycled material, for example, a paper material such as injection-molded paper or die-cut textured paper (e.g., cardboard). In the illustrated embodiment, the shell 126 is formed from a single piece of injection-molded paper material. In an embodiment in which the shell 126 is formed from paper, the paper has a weight between 8 and 12 points (e.g., 8.5 points, 9.0 points, 9.5 points, 10.0 points, 10.5 points, 11.0 points, or 11.5 points) to provide sufficient rigidity without introducing an excess of disposable material.

[0054] The rear body part 128 of the hull 126 has a larger cross-sectional dimension than the front body part 110 when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the formulation cartridge 100. A bump or bulge gives the rear body part 128 its larger cross-sectional area compared to the slender front body part 110. Advantageously, the bump or bulge allows the use of larger volume formula packs 114, 116. In addition, the bump or bulge forms a stop that rests against a corresponding inner face of the handle part 102 and maintains the longitudinal position of the shell 126 during use.

[0055] The slender front body portion 110 of the shell 126 is dimensioned to fit the tray portion 106 of the handle portion 102 and to project into the cartridge cavity of the formulation delivery device during use. As illustrated in [Fig. 1B], the front body portion 110 couples to the valve frame 132. To facilitate secure connection and alignment with the valve frame 132, the front body portion 110 includes a valve frame coupling means, for example, at least one coupling tab 144 configured to selectively couple to the valve frame 132. In the illustrated embodiment, the front body portion 110 includes a single coupling tab 144 extending away from one of its ends. The coupling tab 144 includes an engagement element, for example a notch or raised protrusion, shaped and dimensioned to engage with a complementary opening of the valve frame 132.

[0056] The shell 126 can have many different configurations. For example, referring to [Fig. 2], the illustrated shell 126 is a double-shell configuration formed by at least two partial shells (in this embodiment, a first half 135 and a second half 136) coupled in an articulated manner. In some embodiments, the shell 126 includes a different number of partial shells, for example, three or four partial shells that come together to enclose the formulation packets 114, 116. In still other embodiments, the shell 126 comprises a single piece forming an open-ended tube into which the formulation packets 114, 116 can be inserted. The alignment of the first half 135 and the second half 136 allows the front body portion 110 to be correctly attached to the valve frame 132.

[0057] Although the illustrated hull 126 is formed from injection-molded paper material, this construction is representative and not limiting. In some embodiments, the hull 126 is formed from a single piece of die-cut paper, which is folded to give a three-dimensional structure from which the rear body portion 128 and the slender front body portion 110 extend. In some of these embodiments, this folded construction creates a polygonal cross-section in the rear body portion 128 and a polygonal cross-section in the front body portion 110 (for example, octagonal and hexagonal cross-sections, respectively). To facilitate assembly, some of these embodiments of the hull 126 include one or more grooves or guide lines that ensure correct folding.Some embodiments have a triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal shape in cross-section, or another polygonal shape in cross-section.

[0058] The valve frame 132 provides a rigid structure that aligns the formulation pack valves 123, 125 for proper fluid connection with the fluid lines of the formulation dispensing device. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the valve frame 132 supports an optional encryption chip 138 as described above. In such embodiments, the valve frame 132 is sized and shaped to precisely position the encryption chip 138 adjacent to the cartridge authentication interface of the formulation dispensing device when the formulation cartridge 100 is disposed in the handle of the formulation dispensing device. Therefore, the valve frame 132 is formed from ABS plastic, HDPE, or another polymer. rigid or of another material. In some embodiments, the valve frame 132 is formed from the same material as the shell 126.

[0059] A plurality of valve engagement units 140 extend through a front end of the valve frame 132. Each valve engagement unit 140 receives and secures one of the formulation pack valves 148, 150. In some embodiments, the valve engagement unit 140 is a valve opening or cutout disposed through a face of the valve frame 132, the valve opening or cutout being sized to receive a valve from a formulation pack and optionally to contact an outer circumference of the valve. To allow coupling with the shell 126, the valve frame 132 includes optional engagement elements 142 (for example, tabs) extending from it. In some embodiments, the valve frame 132 is coupled to the front body portion 110 by a friction fit.

[0060] The optional encryption chip 138 (for example, an RFID tag) is disposed on the refill unit 104, for example on the casing 126 or on the valve frame 132 (as in the illustrated embodiment). The encryption chip 138 is positioned on the refill unit 104 such that when the formulation cartridge 100 is inserted into the formulation dispensing device, it is positioned to be read by its cartridge authentication interface. Consequently, the encryption chip 138 stores information relating to the formulation cartridge 100 and its contents, for example, at least one piece of information from among a formulation identifier, an initial formulation quantity, a formulation expiration date, or a formulation production date.

[0061] Thus, the shell 126, the formula packets 114, 116 and the valve frame 132 form the refill unit 104. During use, the refill unit 104 can be coupled reversibly (for example, removably) to the handle part 102, for example by fixing means such as coupling tabs on the shell 126 or by friction fitting between the refill unit 104 and the handle part 102.

[0062] Figures 4 and 5 show a cross-sectional and exploded side view of the formulation cartridge 100 of [Fig. 3], respectively, and Figures 6 and 7 show a formula pack assembly 600. In Figures 4 and 5, the formulation cartridge 100 shown contains the formula pack 410, the primary valve 123, the secondary valve 124, and the protective cap 146. The formula pack assembly 600 shown in Figures 6 and 7 includes the formula pack 410 and the valve assembly 416. Each of these components will now be explained in more detail.

[0063] The formula package 410 includes a package chamber 412 and a package outlet 414. As illustrated in [Fig. 4], the package chamber 412 includes a fluid of formula, such as the first formula fluid 118 or the second formula fluid 120 described in more detail above with respect to [Fig. 2]. The formula fluid may be a non-gaseous formula fluid, a gaseous formula fluid, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the non-gaseous formula fluid undergoes outgassing while sealed inside the package chamber 412, generating a gaseous formula fluid. Without being constrained by theory, when the formula fluid includes a developer, such as any of the developer formulations described in more detail above with respect to [Fig. 2], the developer may contain chemical compositions that oxidize during transport and storage. Such compositions will produce outgassing until the vapor pressure of the gaseous formula fluid is equivalent to the equilibrium vapor pressure of the non-gaseous formula fluid.

[0064] In one embodiment, the formula package 410 may be, for example, a flexible formula package made from a flexible material, so as to allow the formula package 410 to adjust to fit any gaseous formula fluid produced by degassing.

[0065] The packet outlet 414 is positioned towards the distal (front) end of the formulation cartridge 100. A valve assembly 416 is configured to couple fluidically to the packet outlet 414, thus forming one or more passages for the formulation fluid flowing out of the packet chamber 412. In some embodiments, an insert structure, such as a container gripping insert 418, is inserted into the packet outlet 414 and coupled to it, thus forming a secure base by which the valve assembly 416 can be coupled to the packet outlet 414.

[0066] In one embodiment, the container gripping insert 418 can be configured to securely accommodate the valve assembly 416, for example, by means of a snap-fit ​​adjustment mechanism, a screw adjustment mechanism, and the like. However, it should be understood that the valve assembly 416 can also be coupled directly to the package outlet 414. The container gripping insert 418 can also extend into the package chamber 412 via rigid arms, such as those shown in [Fig. 7]. Such rigid arms can provide an internal structure to the formula package by keeping a first and second wall of the package chamber 412 separate, thus maintaining an open flow path when the fluid is discharged from the package chamber 412.

[0067] In the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5, the valve assembly 416 includes both a primary valve 123 and a secondary valve 124. As illustrated in [Fig. 4], the primary valve 123 has a primary valve inlet 402 and a primary valve outlet 404, and the secondary valve 124 has an inlet of secondary valve 406 and a secondary valve outlet 408. The two primary valve inlets 402 and 406 are in fluidic communication with the package chamber 412. In some embodiments, the primary valve inlet 402 and the secondary valve inlet 406 are substantially adjacent to each other, so that the primary valve 123 and the secondary valve 124 connect directly to the package chamber 412 at the same location. In some embodiments, the primary valve inlet 402 of the primary valve 123 is located at one end of the primary flow channel 420, and the secondary valve inlet 406 of the secondary valve 124 is located at one end of the secondary flow channel 422, so that the primary flow channel 420 and the secondary flow channel 422 connect to the package chamber 412 at substantially the same location.However, it should be understood that the primary flow channel 420 and the secondary flow channel 422 can take any suitable path to connect to the package chamber 412 and need not be co-terminal with each other.

[0068] In one embodiment, the primary valve 123 and the secondary valve 124 at their respective inlets 402, 406 are exposed to the same pressure as that in the package chamber 412. In another embodiment, the primary valve 123 and / or the secondary valve 124 at their respective inlets 402, 406 are exposed to a different pressure than that in the package chamber 412.

[0069] In some embodiments, such as that illustrated in [Fig. 7], an internal diameter of the primary flow channel 420 is larger than an internal diameter of the secondary flow channel 422. In some embodiments, the primary flow channel 420 defines a substantially linear fluid path from the pack chamber 412 to the primary valve 123. In some embodiments, the secondary flow channel 422 defines a curved or multidirectional fluid flow path from the fluid pack chamber 412 to the secondary valve 124, for example by following the outer edge of the main flow channel 420 to emerge perpendicular to the flow path of the main flow channel 420, as illustrated in [Fig. 4].Without being constrained by theory, such a configuration is advantageous because a non-linear flow path prevents accidental splashes of the non-gaseous fluid from blocking or interfering with the operation of the secondary valve 124. In addition, the narrower secondary flow channel 422 provides an efficient flow path for a gaseous fluid, while the wider primary flow channel 420 provides an efficient flow path for a non-gaseous fluid.

[0070] Any suitable one-way valve configuration can be used in embodiments of this disclosure to implement the functionality of the primary valve 123 and the secondary valve 124. In one embodiment, each of the primary valve 123 and the secondary valve 124 is of the burst pressure type. As used here, a burst pressure is the pressure difference between the inlet and outlet ports of a valve that must be overcome before the valve allows flow. Burst pressure valves generally include check valves and may include, but are not limited to, swing check valves, mushroom check valves, spring-loaded ball check valves, duckbill valves, butterfly valves, flip-disc valves, plate check valves, lift valves, umbrella valves, diaphragm check valves, etc.all of which can be used with the embodiments of this disclosure. In one embodiment, the secondary valve 124 is an umbrella valve. In another embodiment, the primary valve 123 and the secondary valve 124 are both umbrella valves.

[0071] Generally, the primary valve 123 is configured to allow the flow of a non-gaseous fluid, while the secondary valve 124 is configured to allow the flow of a gaseous fluid as an initial purge of the accumulation of a gas before the non-gaseous fluid flows through the primary valve 123. Therefore, the burst pressure of the secondary valve 124 is lower than that of the primary valve 123.

[0072] In some embodiments, the burst pressure is chosen to allow the release of a gas whenever the pressure of the gaseous fluid exceeds a gaseous fluid filling pressure. In some embodiments, a user can apply pressure to the walls of the package 410, thereby increasing the internal pressure experienced by the secondary valve 124. When the pressure applied by a user and the pressure exerted by the gaseous fluid exceed the burst pressure, the gaseous fluid can be released through the secondary valve 124.

[0073] In some embodiments, this purging process is performed once before the entire formula pack 600 is used in a formulation dispensing system. In some embodiments, this purging process can be repeated two or more times to purge additional volumes of gaseous formula fluid. In some embodiments, pressure can be applied until non-gaseous formula fluid flows through the secondary valve 124, thus indicating that the gaseous formula fluid has been evacuated from the formula pack 410. In some embodiments, a spring mechanism can be adapted to provide an indication to the user when sufficient force has been applied to expel a specific volume of fluid in a gaseous formula, for example by producing an audible signal indicating that sufficient force has been reached. In some embodiments, the formula 410 package is pre-filled with a headspace pressure of inert gas, such as nitrogen or argon gas, to increase the headspace pressure and thus decrease the amount of pressure the user must apply before exceeding the rupture pressure of the secondary valve 124.

[0074] In some embodiments, the rupture pressure of the secondary valve 124 is considerably lower than that of the primary valve 123. In some embodiments, the rupture pressure of the secondary valve 124 is in the range of 0.2 to 5 psi. In some embodiments, the rupture pressure of the secondary valve 124 is in the range of 0.2 to 4 psi. In some embodiments, the rupture pressure of the secondary valve 124 is in the range of 2 to 4 psi. In some embodiments, the rupture pressure of the secondary valve 124 is in the range of 3 to 4 psi.

[0075] In some embodiments, the burst pressure of the secondary valve 124 is chosen to prevent rupture of the secondary valve 124 during the transit of the packaged assembly of formula 600, for example, due to the inversion of the packaged assembly of formula 600 or due to external air pressure differentials encountered, for example, during transport to higher altitude locations or during air freight transport. For example, the burst pressure may be high enough to prevent rupture due to the latent pressure of liquid formula fluid in an inverted packaged assembly of formula 600. The burst pressure may also be high enough to prevent rupture due to a drop in external air pressure due to transport in an unregulated pressure compartment of a cargo aircraft.In certain embodiments, the protective cap 146 can be coupled to the formula pack assembly 600 to provide additional protection against accidental leaks, while still maintaining a sufficiently low burst pressure. Therefore, the protective cap 146 can be coupled to the formula pack assembly 600 via a pressure-fit mechanism, a screw-locking mechanism, or similar.

[0076] In certain embodiments, the secondary valve 124 is coupled to a pull tab. In these embodiments, when a user applies a force to the pull tab, for example by twisting and / or pulling on the pull tab, the force creates a vacuum relative to the inside of the formula packet 410, thus drawing the gaseous formula fluid through the secondary valve 124.

[0077] In some embodiments, the hermetically sealed fluid container, such as the first packet of formula 114, is installed in the formulation cartridge 100 with the protective cap 146 still removed. In some embodiments, The Formula 114 packet cooperates with the Formulation 100 cartridge in such a way that, when the cartridge 100 is inserted into an associated formulation system, such as the system described in relation to Figures IA to 3, a user is unable to apply pressure to the Formula 114 packet once it is installed in the Formulation 100 cartridge, thus preventing the user from applying positive pressure to the Formula 114 packet. Therefore, the secondary valve 124 remains hermetically sealed when the Formulation 100 cartridge is in use. Consequently, the installation of the Formula 114 packet prevents accidental purging by a user.

[0078] In some embodiments, when the formula is drawn through a primary valve, such as the primary valve 123, negative pressure is exerted on the hermetically sealed fluid container, such as the first formulation packet 114. This negative pressure helps the secondary valve 124 remain hermetically closed during operation, thus providing additional security against accidental purging by the user. In some embodiments, the formula is drawn through the primary valve 123 by a pump, such as a peristaltic pump, thereby exerting negative pressure on the hermetically sealed fluid container. In some embodiments, the secondary valve 124 is a umbrella valve, and the negative pressure on the first formulation packet 114 pulls the umbrella valve into its sealing position (for example, against the valve seat of the secondary valve).

[0079] A second embodiment of the formulation cartridge 800 will now be described with reference to Figures 8 and 9. The formulation cartridge 800 is substantially identical to the formulation cartridge 100, except that the secondary valve 824 of the formulation cartridge 800 is different from the secondary valve 124 of the formulation cartridge 100. Thus, the parts of the formulation cartridge 800 will be designated with part reference numbers identical to those of the formulation cartridge 100, with the exception of the '800' series. Furthermore, only the secondary valve 824 and how it affects the operation of the formulation cartridge 800 will be described in detail.

[0080] The formulation cartridge 800 is shown directly exposed to an external environment without the use of a protective cap, such as the protective cap 146. This configuration has the advantage of not requiring a disposable component for the user and provides a more streamlined external form factor. This embodiment can offer manufacturing advantages, particularly in cases where the secondary valve 824 is provided with a sufficiently high burst pressure to prevent accidental leakage during the transport and storage, as in the embodiments described in more detail above with regard to Figures 6 and 7.

[0081] In addition, a formulation cartridge 800 without a protective cap 146 may have a more streamlined form factor, so as to avoid any accidental shock or damage to the formulation cartridge 800 during transport or handling by a user.

[0082] The detailed description presented above in relation to the accompanying drawings, where similar numbers refer to similar elements, is intended to be a description of various embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is offered as a representative example or illustration and should not be construed as being preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The representative examples offered herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the specific forms disclosed. Similarly, all the steps described herein may be interchangeable with other steps, or combinations of steps, to achieve the same or substantially similar result.In general, the embodiments disclosed herein are not exhaustive, and the inventors anticipate that other embodiments within the scope of this disclosure may include structures and functionalities derived from more than one specific embodiment shown in the figures and described in the patent memorandum. That is, this disclosure includes embodiments that combine features of different embodiments.

[0083] In the preceding description, specific details are presented to provide a thorough understanding of example embodiments of this disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented without incorporating all the specific details. In some cases, well-known process steps have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of this disclosure. Furthermore, it should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure can employ any combination of features described herein.

[0084] In the detailed description here, references to "a single embodiment," "an embodiment," "an example of an embodiment," "one or more embodiments," "certain embodiments," "various embodiments," etc., indicate that the embodiment or embodiments described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but that each embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment(s). In addition, when a If a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in relation to one or more embodiments, it is assumed that it is within the scope of a person skilled in the art to apply such a feature, structure, or characteristic in relation to other embodiments, whether or not they are explicitly described. After reading the description, the manner in which to implement the disclosure in alternative embodiments will be obvious to a person skilled in the art. Furthermore, it should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure may utilize any combination of features described herein. All such combinations or sub-combinations of features fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0085] Throughout this patent memorandum, technical terms may be used. These terms shall have their ordinary meaning in the art from which they originate, unless specifically defined herein or the context of their use clearly suggests otherwise.

[0086] The drawings in the FIGURES are not to scale. Similar features are generally indicated by similar reference numerals in the FIGURES. For the purposes of this disclosure, identical or similar features may bear the same reference numerals. Furthermore, the presence of reference numerals or letters in the drawings shall not be considered limiting, even when such numerals or letters are indicated in the claims.

[0087] This application may include references to directions, such as "vertical", "horizontal", "front", "back", "left", "right", "up" and "down", etc. These references, and other similar references in this application, are intended to help describe and understand the particular embodiment (such as when the embodiment is positioned for use) and are not intended to limit this disclosure to those directions or locations.

[0088] This application may also refer to quantities and numbers. Unless specifically stated, these quantities and numbers are not to be considered restrictive, but rather as examples of the possible quantities or numbers associated with this application. In this respect also, this application may use the term "plurality" to refer to a quantity or number. In this context, the term "plurality" means any number greater than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The terms "about," "approximately," etc., mean within 5% of the stated value. The term "based on" means "based at least partially on."

[0089] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of this disclosure have been described in the preceding description. However, aspects of this disclosure that are intended to be protected should not be interpreted as being limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Furthermore, the embodiments described herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. It should be understood that variations and changes may be made by others, and equivalents may be used, without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such variations, changes, and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of this disclosure, as claimed. Non-exhaustive list of embodiments

[0090] Although the general features of the disclosure are described and illustrated, and the specific features of the disclosure are presented in the claims, the following non-limiting embodiments relate to features, and combinations of features, that are explicitly contemplated as forming part of the disclosure. The following non-limiting embodiments contain elements that are modular and can be combined with one another in any number, order, or combination to form a new non-limiting embodiment, which can itself be further combined with other non-limiting embodiments.

[0091] Embodiment 1. A formula container assembly comprising: a formula container including a container chamber and a container outlet; a primary valve including a primary valve inlet and a primary valve outlet; and a secondary valve including a secondary valve inlet and a secondary valve outlet, wherein the primary valve inlet and the secondary valve inlet are in fluidic communication with the container chamber.

[0092] Embodiment 2. The formula container assembly according to embodiment 1, in which the formula container is a flexible formula container.

[0093] Embodiment 3. The container assembly of formula according to any one of embodiments 1 or 2, in which the container chamber comprises a fluid of formula, the fluid of formula comprising a fluid of liquid formula and a fluid of gaseous formula.

[0094] Embodiment 4. The assembly containing the formula according to any one of the embodiments 1 to 3, in which the fluid of formula emits the gaseous fluid of formula.

[0095] Embodiment 5. The assembly containing the formula according to any one of the embodiments 1 to 4, further comprising a valve assembly, the valve assembly comprising the primary valve and the secondary valve.

[0096] Embodiment 6. The formula container assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, further comprising a container gripping insert configured to fit into the container outlet and receive the valve assembly.

[0097] Embodiment 7. The assembly containing the formula according to any one of the embodiments 1 to 6, further comprising a primary flow channel including a primary flow inlet and a secondary flow channel including a secondary flow inlet.

[0098] Embodiment 8. The container assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the primary flow inlet and the secondary flow inlet are both coterminal with an inner part of the container gripping insert.

[0099] Embodiment 9. The assembly containing the formula according to any one of the embodiments 1 to 8, in which the internal diameter of the primary flow channel is greater than an internal diameter of the secondary flow channel.

[0100] Embodiment 10. The assembly containing the formula according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9, in which the secondary valve is configured to open when a fluid pressure in the secondary valve inlet relative to an outside air pressure exceeds a burst pressure.

[0101] Embodiment 11. The formula container assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein, when pressure is applied to the formula container, the fluid pressure in the secondary flow channel increases and opens the secondary valve, thereby allowing the gaseous formula fluid to be evacuated from the formula container through the secondary valve outlet.

[0102] Embodiment 12. The formula container assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the burst pressure exceeds a latent fluid pressure of liquid formula when the formula container assembly is held upside down, so as to prevent leakage of the formula from the formula container assembly.

[0103] Embodiment 13. The assembly containing the formula according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12, in which the burst pressure is in a range of about 0.2 psi to about 5 psi.

[0104] Embodiment 14. The assembly containing the formula according to any one of embodiments 1 to 13, in which the secondary valve is an umbrella valve.

[0105] Embodiment 15. The assembly containing the formula according to any one of the embodiments 1 to 14, further comprising a protective cap configured to hermetically and removably close an exterior of the secondary valve outlet.

[0106] Although illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, it will be understood that various changes can be made to them without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

Demands

1. Formula container assembly comprising: a formula container including a container chamber and a container outlet; a primary valve (123) including a primary valve inlet (402) and a primary valve outlet (404); and a secondary valve (124) including a secondary valve inlet (406) and a secondary valve outlet (408), wherein the primary valve inlet (402) and the secondary valve inlet (404) are in fluidic communication with the container chamber.

2. Formula container assembly according to claim 1, wherein the formula container is a flexible formula package (410).

3. A container assembly of formula according to claim 1, in which the container chamber comprises a fluid of formula (118, 120), the fluid of formula (118, 120) comprising a fluid of liquid formula and a fluid of gaseous formula; and in which the fluid of formula (118, 120) emits the fluid of gaseous formula.

4. A formula-containing assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a valve assembly (416), the valve assembly (416) comprising the primary valve (123) and the secondary valve (124).

5. A formula container assembly according to claim 4, further comprising a container gripping insert (418) configured to fit into the container outlet and receive the valve assembly (416).

6. Assembly containing formula according to claim 5, further comprising a primary flow channel (420) comprising a primary flow inlet and a secondary flow channel (422) comprising a secondary flow inlet.

7. A formula-containing assembly according to claim 1, wherein the secondary valve (124) is configured to open when a fluid pressure in the secondary valve inlet (406) relative to an outside air pressure exceeds a burst pressure.

8. A formula container assembly according to claim 6, wherein, when pressure is applied to the formula container, the fluid pressure in the secondary flow channel (422) increases and opens the secondary valve (124), thus allowing the gaseous formula fluid to be evacuated from the formula container through the secondary valve outlet (408).

9. Formula container assembly according to claim 7, wherein the burst pressure exceeds a latent pressure of liquid formula fluid when the formula container assembly is held upside down, so as to prevent leakage of the formula from the formula container assembly.

10. A formula container assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a protective cap (146) configured to hermetically and removably close an exterior of the secondary valve outlet (408).

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