Integration of jetting needle with fluid jetting valve and methods thereof

Abstract

To provide a jetting dispenser fluid body and a jetting system that have a structure allowing easy cleaning.SOLUTION: A fluid body 16 for use with a jetting dispenser may include: a fluid inlet 92 for receiving fluid from a fluid source; a fluid outlet 104 for discharging the fluid from the fluid body; a chamber 88 defined between the fluid inlet and outlet and configured to receive the fluid therein; a valve seat 100 in the chamber, the fluid outlet extending through the valve seat; a valve element 76 for reciprocal movement within the chamber between a first position, in which the valve element contacts the valve seat, and a second position, in which the valve element is separated from the valve seat; a dispensing needle separable from the fluid body and configured to receive the fluid from the fluid outlet; and a retaining nut 300 configured to releasably secure the dispensing needle to the fluid body such that the dispensing needle contacts the fluid body adjacently to the fluid outlet.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to devices and methods for dispensing (dispensing) materials onto a substrate, and more particularly to an injection dispenser having a needle and readily accessible components.

Background Art

[0002] Non-contact viscous material dispensers are often used to apply small amounts of viscous material onto a substrate. For example, non-contact viscous material dispensers are used to apply various viscous materials onto electronic substrates such as printed circuit boards. Materials applied to electronic substrates include, by way of example and not limitation, general-purpose adhesives, ultraviolet curable adhesives, solder paste, solder flux, solder mask, thermal grease, lid sealant, oil, sealant, potting compound, epoxy, die attach fluid, silicon, RTV (room temperature vulcanizing silicon), cyanoacrylate, and the like.

[0003] An injection dispenser may generally have a pneumatic or electric actuator for repeatedly moving a shaft or tappet toward a sheet while injecting droplets of a viscous material from an outlet orifice of the dispenser. An electrically actuated injection dispenser may more particularly use a piezoelectric actuator.

[0004] Existing injection dispenser designs often do not have an arrangement for proper and / or easy access for appropriately cleaning (washing) all necessary surfaces of the components. Therefore, the user often has to disassemble multiple parts of the injection system to access the components that need to be cleaned. This requires time and additional tools, resulting in increased cost, increased downtime, decreased efficiency, and the like.

[0005] Furthermore, existing spray dispenser systems often utilize dispensing nozzles that do not fit within small or narrow components, which limits their applications. Additionally, conventional systems allow air to be trapped within them, which can reduce the accuracy and precision of the dispensed material, degrade the structural properties of the dispensed material, and / or lead to performance problems. Moreover, while some dispensing components may accept coatings to facilitate the dispensing or spraying of material, such coatings often form undesirable droplets, further reducing the accuracy and precision of material application.

[0006] For these reasons at least, it would be desirable to provide injection systems and methods that address these or other problems. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0007] The aforementioned needs are met by various embodiments of the injection systems, dispensing needles, coating tools, and methods disclosed herein. According to one embodiment of this disclosure, a fluid body for use with an injection dispenser is disclosed. The fluid body is configured to receive a fluid therein and to eject the fluid from there. The fluid body comprises a fluid inlet configured to receive the fluid from a fluid source; a fluid outlet configured to discharge the fluid from the fluid body; a chamber defined between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet and configured to receive the fluid therein; a valve seat disposed within the chamber, the fluid outlet extending through the valve seat; a valve element configured for reciprocating movement within the chamber between a first position in contact with the valve seat and a second position spaced apart from the valve seat; a dispensing needle detachable from the fluid body and configured to receive the fluid from the fluid outlet; and a retaining nut configured to detachably secure the dispensing needle to the fluid body such that the dispensing needle is adjacent to the fluid outlet and in contact with the fluid body.

[0008] In another embodiment, an injection system including a fluid body and an injection dispenser is disclosed. The fluid body may include a fluid inlet configured to receive the fluid from a fluid source, a fluid outlet configured to discharge the fluid from the fluid body, a chamber defined between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet and configured to receive the fluid therein, a valve seat disposed within the chamber, the fluid outlet extending through the valve seat, a valve element configured for reciprocating movement within the chamber between a first position in contact with the valve seat and a second position spaced apart from the valve seat, a dispensing needle detachable from the fluid body and configured to receive the fluid from the fluid outlet, and a retaining nut configured to detachably secure the dispensing needle to the fluid body such that the dispensing needle is in contact with the fluid body adjacent to the fluid outlet. The injection dispenser has an actuator configured to cause a reciprocating motion of a valve stem toward and away from the valve seat, thereby moving the fluid in the chamber out through the fluid outlet and into the dispensing needle.

[0009] In another embodiment, a needle coating holder is disclosed for applying a coating to a dispensing needle for use with a spray system. The needle coating holder comprises a body defining an internal chamber configured to receive the coating; a needle retaining plate adjacent to the chamber, defining an opening extending through it, the opening configured to receive the dispensing needle; and a cover selectively positioned to contact the dispensing needle disposed within the needle retaining plate. When the cover is positioned in contact with the dispensing needle, an airtight seal is formed between the cover and the needle inlet of the dispensing needle.

[0010] In another embodiment, a fluid body for use with an injection dispenser may comprise: a fluid inlet configured to receive the fluid from a fluid source; a fluid outlet configured to discharge the fluid from the fluid body; a chamber defined between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet and configured to receive the fluid therein; a valve seat disposed within the chamber, the fluid outlet extending through the valve seat; a valve element configured for reciprocating movement within the chamber between a first position in contact with the valve seat and a second position spaced apart from the valve seat; a dispensing needle detachable from the fluid body and configured to receive the fluid from the fluid outlet; and a retaining element configured to detachably secure the dispensing needle to the fluid body such that the dispensing needle is in contact with the fluid body adjacent to the fluid outlet.

[0011] In another embodiment, a fluid body for use with an injection dispenser may comprise: a fluid inlet configured to receive the fluid from a fluid source; a fluid outlet configured to discharge the fluid from the fluid body; a chamber defined between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet and configured to receive the fluid therein; a valve seat disposed within the chamber, the fluid outlet extending through the valve seat; a valve element configured for reciprocating movement within the chamber between a first position in contact with the valve seat and a second position spaced apart from the valve seat; and a dispensing needle detachable from the fluid body and configured to receive the fluid from the fluid outlet. The dispensing needle may include a coating thereon, the coating may be configured to reduce surface tension. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] This application is further understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For purposes of illustration of the subject matter, exemplary aspects of the subject matter are shown in the drawings, but the subject matter of the present disclosure is not limited to the specific methods and systems disclosed.

[0013] [Figure 1] A perspective view of an injection system according to one aspect of the present disclosure is shown.

[0014] [Figure 2] Another perspective view of the injection system of FIG. 1 showing the fluid body housing in an open position according to one aspect of the present disclosure is shown.

[0015] [Figure 3] A perspective view of a fluid body according to one aspect of the present disclosure is shown.

[0016] [Figure 4] A cross-sectional side view of the fluid body of FIG. 3 is shown.

[0017] [Figure 5] An angled cross-sectional view of a portion of the fluid body of FIG. 3 is shown.

[0018] [Figure 6] A side cross-sectional view of a fluid body having a dispensing needle according to one aspect of the present disclosure is shown.

[0019] [Figure 7] A partially exploded cross-sectional view of the fluid body of FIG. 6 is shown.

[0020] [Figure 8] An exploded cross-sectional view of a portion of the fluid body of FIG. 7 is shown.

[0021] [Figure 9] A perspective view of a dispensing needle according to one aspect of the present disclosure is shown.

[0022] [Figure 10]Shows a cross-sectional side view of the dispensing needle of FIG. 9.

[0023] [Figure 11] Shows a side cross-sectional view of a portion of a fluid body having a dispensing needle according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0024] [Figure 12] Shows a flowchart showing a process of assembling a fluid body according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0025] [Figure 13] Shows a portion of a dispensing needle having droplets formed thereon.

[0026] [Figure 14] Shows an angled cross-sectional view of a portion of a dispensing needle according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0027] [Figure 15] Shows a needle coating device according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0028] [Figure 16] Shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the needle coating device of FIG. 15.

[0029] [Figure 17] Shows another cross-sectional view of a portion of the needle coating device of FIG. 15.

[0030] [Figure 18] Shows a side view of a portion of the needle coating device of FIG. 15.

[0031] [Figure 19] Shows a flowchart showing a process of coating a dispensing needle according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0032] Aspects of this disclosure are described herein in detail with reference to the drawings. Similar reference numerals throughout this document refer to the same elements unless otherwise specified.

[0033] In this description, certain terms are used for convenience only and are not limiting. The terms “proximal” and “distal” generally refer to the position or direction toward and away from the individual using the mixed system, respectively. The terms “axial,” “vertical,” “lateral,” “left,” “right,” “up,” and “down” indicate the direction of the drawing being referenced. The term “substantially” is intended to mean a substantial or majority of what is specified, but not necessarily complete. The terminology includes the terms described above, their derivatives, and synonyms.

[0034] When a value is expressed as an approximation by the use of the antecedent "about," it will be understood that a particular value may form another embodiment. Generally, the use of the term "about" indicates an approximation that may vary depending on the desired characteristic to be obtained by the disclosed subject matter, and should be interpreted in the particular context in which it is used, based on its function, and a person skilled in the art will be able to interpret it in this way. In some cases, the number of significant figures used for a particular value may be one non-limiting way of determining the range of the word "about." In other cases, the gradient used for a set of values ​​may be used to determine the intended range available for the term "about" for each value. Where present, all ranges are inclusive and combinable; that is, a reference to a value described in a range includes each and all values ​​within that range.

[0035] Throughout this specification, words will be given their ordinary meanings as will be understood by those skilled in the art. However, to avoid misunderstanding, the meaning of certain terms will be specifically defined or clarified.

[0036] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, an injection system 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure generally includes an injection dispenser 12 connected to a main electronic control unit 14. The injection dispenser 12 includes a fluid body 16 connected to an actuator housing 18. More specifically, the fluid body 16 is held within a fluid body housing 19. The fluid body housing 19 may include one or more heaters (not shown), depending on the needs of the application. The fluid body 16 receives fluid under pressure from a suitable fluid supply unit 20, such as a syringe barrel (not shown). A tappet or valve assembly 22 is connected to the actuator housing 18 and extends within the fluid body 16. For the purposes of this application, the dispensing shaft 1 is defined as extending parallel to the direction in which the fluid is dispensed or injected from the injection system 10. It will be understood that the injection direction may vary depending on the orientation of the injection system 10, and that the dispensing axis 1 is used for reference only and is not intended to limit the dispensing direction of any of the embodiments disclosed herein. The dispensing axis 1 may be parallel to the direction of gravity. A first axial direction 1a (also called the dispensing direction 1a) may be defined parallel to the dispensing axis 1 and may extend along the dispensing axis 1 in a first direction (e.g., in the direction of gravity). The first axial direction 1a may be used to point in a direction configured such that the fluid being dispensed or injected moves away from the injection system 10. A second axial direction 1b may be defined parallel to the dispensing axis 1 and in the opposite direction to the first axial direction 1a.

[0037] The injection dispenser 12 includes an actuator (e.g., a piezoelectric actuator) configured to operate the valve assembly 22. The actuator may be configured to cause the movement of one or more components within the valve assembly 22 or within the fluid body 16 to cause the dispensing or injection of fluid material received in the fluid body 16, or alternatively, to hinder it. The fluid body 16 may be operably connectable to the fluid supply unit 20 and may be configured to receive fluid material from the fluid supply unit 20 into the fluid inlet 92, as illustrated in Figure 4. The fluid material may be mobile through the fluid body 16 along the fluid supply channel 94 and dispensed away from the fluid body 16 out through the fluid outlet 104. A fluid chamber 88 may be configured to receive fluid material from the fluid supply channel 94 and may be partially defined by the fluid outlet 104. The fluid chamber 88 may be further defined by the valve assembly 22. The valve seat 100 may be defined on the fluid body 16 adjacent to the fluid outlet 104 and may extend into the fluid chamber 88. The valve seat 100 may be selectively contacted by one or more components of the valve assembly 22 to selectively allow or prevent the passage of fluid material from inside the fluid chamber 88 through the fluid outlet 104 to the outside.

[0038] The valve assembly 22 may include a valve element 76 configured for reciprocating movement within the fluid chamber 88. The valve element 76 is configured to be selectively positioned for engagement or contact with the valve seat 100. When the valve element 76 is engaged with the valve seat 100, the fluid material in the fluid chamber 88 is prevented from moving out of the fluid body 16 through the valve seat 100 and the fluid outlet 104. When the valve element 76 is separated from the valve seat 100, the fluid material may flow out through the fluid outlet 104. In some embodiments, the position of the valve element 76 within the fluid chamber 88 may allow or prevent the introduction of fluid material into the fluid chamber 88. In some embodiments, when the valve element 76 is in a first position (e.g., separated from the valve seat 100), the fluid material is allowed to enter the fluid chamber 88 from a fluid supply channel 94 that receives fluid material from the fluid supply unit 20. That is, the fluid supply channel 94 is in fluid communication with the fluid chamber 88. When the valve element 76 is in a second position separated from the first position (for example, when the valve element 76 is in contact with the valve seat 100), the valve element 76 can block the fluid supply channel 94 and prevent the fluid material from entering the fluid chamber 88.

[0039] An actuator within the injection dispenser 12 is configured to move a valve element 76 along a dispensing axis 1 within a fluid chamber 88. An actuator (not shown) of the injection dispenser 12 may be positioned to cause movement of the valve element 76 in a first axial direction 1a, a second axial direction 1b, or both of the first axial direction 1a and the second axial direction 1b. When the valve element 76 is moved in the first axial direction 1a, it is configured to contact a valve seat 100 defined on the fluid body 16. When the valve element 76 is in contact with the valve seat 100, the fluid material in the fluid body 16 between the valve element 76 and the valve seat 100 may be prevented from moving out of the fluid body 16. In some embodiments, the movement of the valve element 76 toward the valve seat 100 may force a portion of the fluid material to be discharged or ejected out of the fluid body 16. Injection can be caused by the valve element 76 contacting and pressing against a portion of the fluid material in the fluid body 16 as the valve element 76 moves toward the valve seat 100.

[0040] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the fluid body 16 is held within the fluid body housing 19. The fluid body housing 19 may be connected at one end to the actuator housing 18 by a hinge 122. The fluid body housing 19 may be configured to pivotally rotate about the hinge 122 between at least two positions relative to the actuator housing 18. In the first position, the fluid body housing 19 is firmly held relative to the actuator housing 18, and the fluid body 16 engages with the components within the actuator housing 18 as described above. In this position, the fluid body 16 may be configured to receive the fluid to be dispensed and to be activated to cause the dispensing of the fluid. The fluid body housing 19 can be rotated around the hinge 122 from a first position to a second position, in which position the fluid body housing 19 is disconnected from the actuator housing 18 and the fluid body 16 can be separated from the actuator housing 18. In the second position, the fluid body 16 can be accessed and removed from the fluid body housing 19. Removal of the fluid body 16 allows for easy cleaning and / or other maintenance or replacement of the components before the fluid body 16 is reinserted into the fluid body housing 19 (or another fluid body 16 is inserted). In this regard, the valve assembly 22 can also be easily removed from the fluid body 16 after the fluid body 16 has been removed from the fluid body housing 19. The valve assembly 22 can be replaced with one or more new parts and / or cleaned for reuse.

[0041] When the fluid body housing 19 is in the first position, it can be removably secured to the actuator housing 18 by a connector 124 adjacent to the second end opposite the first end of the fluid body housing 19, as shown in Figure 2. The connector 124 may include a threaded fastener, a hook-and-loop fastener, a biased push-pin fastener, a clasp, a rotatable cam, or other suitable fastening mechanism, and the disclosure is not limited to any particular fastening mechanism. When the connector 124 is locked, the fluid body housing 19 is firmly secured to the actuator housing 18 such that it may be prevented from rotating about the hinge 122. When the connector 124 is disengaged, the fluid body housing 19 may be allowed to rotate about the hinge 122.

[0042] The fluid body 16 is configured to dispense or inject fluid toward a substrate (not shown). Referring to Figures 2 to 4, the fluid can be introduced into the fluid body 16 from the fluid supply unit 20 at the fluid inlet 92. The fluid can move or be moved from the fluid inlet 92 into the fluid chamber 88 along the fluid supply channel 94. The fluid outlet 104 can be defined on the fluid body 16 and configured to communicate with the fluid chamber 88. The fluid outlet 104 can be defined on the valve seat 100. In some embodiments, the fluid outlet 104 can be defined on one component of the fluid body 16, which can be separated from the rest of the fluid body 16, as will be described in detail below. The fluid can be dispensed or injected out of the fluid body 16 at the fluid outlet 104. In some embodiments, one or more additional components can be configured to receive the fluid from the fluid outlet 104 before the fluid is separated from the injection system 10, as will be described in detail below.

[0043] The fluid outlet 104 may extend from or be disposed adjacent to the valve seat 100 so that a portion of the fluid in the fluid chamber 88 can move toward and through the fluid outlet 104 when the valve element 76 is moved toward the valve seat 100. The valve seat 100 may be disposed on a valve seat holder 150. The valve seat 100 may be a separate component from the valve seat holder 150. The valve seat holder 150 may be configured to be removablely fixed to the valve seat 100. In such embodiments, the valve seat 100 may be designed, structured, and / or configured to be removable and / or replaceable within the valve seat holder 150. This may allow easier access to the valve seat 100 for cleaning a blocked valve seat 100 and fluid outlet 104, repairing a damaged valve seat 100, replacing a worn valve seat 100, replacing the valve seat 100 with a different valve seat 100 having different parameters (e.g., different curvature or different size fluid outlet 104), and / or similar purposes.

[0044] In some embodiments, the valve seat 100 may be integrally connected to the valve seat holder 150 and may be designed, structured, and / or configured not to be separately removed from the valve seat holder 150. In such embodiments, the valve seat 100 may be part of a single valve seat holder 150, or alternatively, may be a separate component from the valve seat holder 150 that can be firmly and permanently fixed to the valve seat holder 150. When disposed within the valve seat holder 150, the valve seat 100 may be fixed to the valve seat holder 150 via any number of suitable fixing mechanisms. The fixing mechanisms may be selected based on the intended use of the valve seat 100 and whether the valve seat 100 is designed, structured, and / or configured to be removablely fixed to the valve seat holder 150 or to be permanently fixed. Suitable fixing mechanisms may include, but are not limited to, adhesives, welds, screws, snap fits, friction fits, and the like.

[0045] The valve seat holder 150 may be fixed to the fluid body 16 and may be part of the single fluid body 16, or alternatively, it may be a separate component configured to be detachably attached to the fluid body 16. Referring to Figures 4 to 7, the valve seat holder 150 may have a proximal end 154 and a distal end 158 spaced apart from the proximal end 154 along the dispensing axis 1 (for example, in the dispensing direction 1a or in the direction of the fluid outlet 104). The fluid chamber 88 may be defined by the internal surface 152 of the valve seat holder 150 between the proximal end 154 and the distal end 158. The valve element 76 may be receivable within the valve seat holder 150 (and within the fluid chamber 88) through a proximal opening 156 (shown in Figure 7) defined at the proximal end 154 of the valve seat holder 150. The valve seat 100 and / or fluid outlet 104 may be positioned adjacent to the distal end 158, and the fluid may be discharged or injected from inside the valve chamber 88, out of the valve seat holder 150, through the fluid outlet 104 at the distal end 158.

[0046] In some embodiments, the valve seat holder 150 may be configured to be removably fixed to the fluid body 16 so that the valve seat holder 150 can be separated from and removed from the fluid body 16. The valve seat holder 150 may be fixed to the rest of the fluid body 16 via a preferred fastening mechanism, such as a screw, snap fit, and / or other mechanism. As shown in Figures 4 and 6, for example, the valve seat holder 150 may include threads 162 defined on an external surface 151. The threads 162 may be configured to removably engage with complementary threads 170 defined on a portion of the fluid body 16 that receives the valve seat holder 150. The valve seat holder 150 may be designed, structured, and / or configured to be detachable and removable from the rest of the fluid body 16. This allows the valve seat holder 150 to be cleaned or repaired without requiring disassembly of the entire injection system 10. The removable valve seat holder 150 may also provide easier access to the valve seat 100 therein for cleaning, repair, and / or replacement, as previously stated. In some embodiments where the valve seat 100 is deemed to require replacement, the valve seat 100 may be removed from the valve seat holder 150 and replaced therein, or alternatively, the entire valve seat holder 150, along with the valve seat 100 therein, may be removed from the fluid body 16 and replaced with a different valve seat holder 150 having a different valve seat 100 therein. Allowing various components of the injection system 10 to be removed, cleaned, and / or replaced without requiring the disassembly of the entire injection system 10 improves efficiency, reduces the time spent on maintenance, and reduces the waste that may be generated when only some of the components may require replacement but the group of components is inseparable.

[0047] As described above, the fluid discharged from the fluid body 16 may be discharged or sprayed into or onto another component before being transferred to the substrate. Additional components may include funnels, needles, sprays, other conduits, dispensers, applicators, receiving parts (containers), etc., configured to receive the fluid that has been dispensed before it is transferred to the substrate. Referring to Figures 6 and 7, a needle 200 may be configured to receive the fluid discharged from the fluid chamber 88. The needle 200 may be positioned adjacent to the fluid outlet 104 so that it may be configured to receive the fluid discharged from the fluid outlet 104.

[0048] Referring further to Figures 6 and 7, and more specifically to Figures 9 through 11, the needle 200 may include a proximal end 204 and a distal end 208 spaced apart from the proximal end 204 along the axial direction along the dispensing axis 1, for example, along the first axis (or dispensing direction) 1a. A needle shaft 212 may extend between the proximal end 204 and the distal end 208. The needle shaft 212 may define a lumen 216 extending through it. A needle inlet 220 may be defined at the proximal end 204 of the needle shaft 212, and a needle outlet 224 may be defined at the distal end 208. The lumen 216 may be in fluid communication with both the needle inlet 220 and the needle outlet 224. The needle 200 may be configured to receive fluid discharged into the lumen 216 from the fluid outlet 104 through the needle inlet 220. The fluid may move through the lumen 216 toward the distal end 208 and be discharged from the lumen 216 out of the needle 200 through the needle outlet 224. In some embodiments, the needle shaft 212 may be substantially cylindrical, but it will be understood that the needle shaft 212 (and the lumen 216) may be designed, structured, and / or configured to have different cross-sectional shapes, such as rectangular, triangular, elliptical, trapezoidal, and / or other preferred shapes.

[0049] The needle 200 may further include an outer housing or needle housing 230 configured to receive and secure a needle shaft 212 therein. The needle housing 230 may be configured to engage with other components of the injection system 10, such as the fluid body 16 or the valve seat holder 150. In such an embodiment, the needle shaft 212 is not directly connected to the injection system 10, but instead is secured to the injection system 10 via the needle housing 230. The needle housing 230 may be sized such that, when the needle 200 engages with the injection system 10, the needle shaft 212 and the lumen 216 can be oriented and aligned in a desired manner, thereby allowing the fluid dispensed from the fluid chamber 88 to be receptive within the lumen 216. The needle 200 may be secured via the needle housing 230 to the fluid body 16, or to an associated component of the fluid body 16 (e.g., the valve seat holder 150).

[0050] The needle housing 230 may be substantially cylindrical, but it will be understood that other shapes may also be used. As illustrated in the exemplary figure 10, the needle housing 230 may include a proximal end 232 and a distal end 234 spaced apart from the proximal end 232 along the dispensing direction 1a. The proximal end 232 of the needle housing 230 may axially overlap with the proximal end 204 of the needle 200. The distal end 234 may be spaced apart from the distal end 208 of the needle 200 so that the distal end 234 of the needle housing 230 may be positioned axially between the proximal end 204 and the distal end 208 of the needle 200. In some embodiments, the proximal end 232 may be spaced axially away from the proximal end 204 of the needle 200 such that the proximal end 232 of the housing is positioned between the proximal end 204 and the distal end 208 of the needle 200.

[0051] As shown in Figure 9, the needle housing 230 may define an external surface 238 extending along the dispensing axis 1. In some embodiments, the needle housing 230 may be sized substantially uniformly throughout, such that the needle housing 230 defines the same diameter along its entire length. Referring to the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 10, in some embodiments, the needle housing 230 may include a proximal portion 230a and a distal portion 230b extending axially from the proximal portion 230a in the dispensing direction 1a. The proximal portion 230a may be adjacent to the proximal end 232 of the needle housing 230, while the distal portion 230b may be adjacent to the distal end 234 of the needle housing 230. The proximal portion 230a and the distal portion 230b may have different physical dimensions, such as diameter. In some embodiments, the proximal portion 230a may have a first diameter 242a that is larger than the second diameter 242b of the distal portion 230b. Each of the proximal portion 230a and the distal portion 230b defines an external surface extending between the proximal end 232 and the distal end 234. In some embodiments, the proximal portion 230a defines an external surface 238a, and the distal portion 230b defines an external surface 238b. The external surface 238a of the proximal portion 230a may be axially adjacent to the external surface 238b of the distal portion 230b along the dispensing axis 1.

[0052] Referring again to Figures 9 to 11, the needle housing 230 includes an upper contact surface 250 configured to be positioned in contact with one component of the fluid body 16, for example, a valve seat holder 150. The upper contact surface 250 may be defined on the proximal portion 230a at the proximal end 232 of the needle housing 230. A bottom contact surface 262 may be defined on the opposite side of the upper contact surface 250 and spaced apart from the upper contact surface 250 along the first axial direction 1a. The bottom contact surface 262 may be positioned on the proximal portion 230a of the needle housing 230 such that its proximal portion 230a is positioned between the upper contact surface 250 and the bottom contact surface 262. In some embodiments, such as that shown in Figure 10, the bottom contact surface 262 may be positioned between the outer surface 238a of the proximal portion 230a and the outer surface 238b of the distal portion 230b, along the radial direction 2 perpendicular to the dispensing axis 1. The upper contact surface 250 and the bottom contact surface 262 may be planar and parallel to each other in some embodiments, but other relative orientations are also conceivable. The upper contact surface 250 may be adjacent to the proximal end 204 and the needle inlet 220 of the needle 200.

[0053] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, the upper contact surface 250 may further define one or more notches, slots, grooves, etc., which may be configured to receive one or more sealing elements. For example, a notch 254 may be defined on the upper contact surface 250, which may be configured to receive a seal 270 (for example, shown in Figures 6 to 8). The seal 270 may be an elastomer. In some embodiments, the seal 270 may be an O-ring. When the needle 200 engages with the fluid body 16, the seal 270 may be configured to provide a liquid-tight seal so that the liquid cannot move through the seal 270. In some embodiments, the needle 200 may include a plurality of seals 270 spaced radially apart from each other. For example, the needle 200 may include two seals 270 (such as O-rings) concentrically spaced apart from each other along the upper contact surface 250. Multiple seals 270 may be redundant to ensure that if one of the seals 270 is damaged, another seal 270 can prevent leakage. In some embodiments, one or more seals 270 may be configured to prevent any fluid to be dispensed from entering the various threads located on the valve seat holder 150, the various threads located on the retaining nut 300 (described below), and / or other locations on the fluid body 16. One or more seals 270 may be configured to define a space 340 between the needle 200 and the valve seat 100 so that the material dispensed therein can be received.

[0054] The needle 200 may be detachably engaged with the fluid body 16 and detached from the fluid body 16. Removal of the needle 200 from the fluid body 16 allows for cleaning of the components of the fluid body 16 and / or cleaning of the needle 200. The detachability of the needle 200 also allows for replacement of the needle 200 with another needle 200. Thus, the fluid body 16 may be configured to work with various needles 200 having different dimensions, for example, of the lumen 216. In some embodiments, if the needle 200 becomes blocked or damaged, the needle 200 may be disengaged from the fluid body 16 and removed from the injection system 10 so that another needle 200 may be introduced in its place and engaged with the fluid body 16.

[0055] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6, the needle 200 may be held in engagement with the rest of the fluid body 16 by a movable retaining component, for example, by engaging with or being held adjacent to a valve seat holder 150. The retaining component may be configured to hold the needle 200 in a compressed state relative to one or more components of the fluid body 16. In some embodiments, the retaining component may be a retaining nut 300. Referring generally to Figures 4 to 8, the retaining nut 300 may include a proximal end 304 and a distal end 308 spaced axially from the proximal end 304, for example along the dispensing axis 1 in the dispensing direction 1a. The retaining nut 300 may include an internal surface 324 defining a receiving portion (container) 312 extending through the retaining nut 300. The receiving portion 312 is configured to receive the needle 200 therein. A proximal opening 316 is defined at the proximal end 304 and is in fluid communication with the receiving portion 312. A distal opening 320 is defined at the distal end 308 and is in fluid communication with the receiving portion 312. At least a portion of the needle 200 may be configured to be movable within the receiving portion 312 along the dispensing direction 1a.

[0056] The retaining nut 300 may be removably attached to the fluid body 16. In some embodiments, the retaining nut 300 may be fixed to the valve seat holder 150. The retaining nut 300 may be fixed to the valve seat holder 150 via screw, snap fit, friction fit, joint fit, and / or another preferred connection method. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figure 7, the inner surface 324 of the retaining nut 300 may define a thread 328 thereon, configured to removably engage with a complementary thread 166 defined on the outer surface 151 of the valve seat holder 150. The figure illustrates threads 328 on an internal surface 324 and complementary threads 166 on an external surface 151, but it will be understood that this arrangement can be reversed such that the threads 328 of the retaining nut 300 are defined on its external surface, while the complementary threads 166 are defined on the internal surface 152 of the valve seat holder 150 or on another component of the fluid body 16.

[0057] The retaining nut 300 can function as a carrier for the needle 200 and as a mounting interface between the needle 200 and the fluid body 16. That is, the engagement between the needle 200 and the fluid body 16 (e.g., valve seat holder 150) may depend on alignment, orientation, relative position, and relative engagement with the fluid body 16. The retaining nut 300 may include certain dimensions and components configured to fix the needle 200 inside and support and engage the needle 200 with the fluid body 16, as will be described in detail below.

[0058] Referring to Figures 7 and 8, the receiving portion 312 and the inner surface 324 of the retaining nut 300 may be dimensioned to complement the shape of at least a portion of the needle 200, for example, the needle housing 230. It may be advantageous for the retaining nut 300 to receive the needle 200 in such a way that when the needle 200 is in contact with the retaining nut 300, translational movement of the needle 200 relative to the retaining nut 300 in a plane perpendicular to the dispensing direction 1a (for example, in the radial direction 2). As previously stated, in embodiments in which the needle housing 230 includes a proximal portion 230a and a distal portion 230b of different dimensions, the retaining nut 300 may include surfaces dimensioned complementary to the needle housing 230 and the respective proximal portion 230a and distal portion 230b in order to prevent undesirable movement. As shown in Figure 8, the internal surface 324 of the retaining nut 300 may include a first portion 324a and a second portion 324b adjacent to the first portion 324a. The needle 200 may be moved into a seated configuration within the retaining nut 300 so that the needle 200 is fixedly secured to the nut, at least in the dispensing direction 1a (see Figure 6). When the needle 200 is moved into the receiving portion 312 and into the seated configuration, the proximal portion 230a of the needle housing 230 of the needle 200 may be positioned adjacent to or in contact with the first portion 324a of the internal surface 324 of the retaining nut 300. The distal portion 230b may be positioned adjacent to or in contact with the second portion 324b. The outer surface 238a of the proximal portion 230a may be adjacent to or in contact with the first portion 324a, and the outer surface 238b of the distal portion 230b may be adjacent to or in contact with the second portion 324b. When the needle 200 is in a seated configuration, contact between the inner surface 324 of the retaining nut 300 and the outer surface 238 of the needle housing 230 of the needle 200 prevents the translation of the needle 200 relative to the retaining nut 300 along the radial direction 2 in a plane perpendicular to the dispensing axis. Similarly, the needle 200 may be prevented from angularly moving relative to the retaining nut 300 such that the line extending between the proximal end 204 and the distal end 208 of the needle 200 is angularly offset from the dispensing axis 1.

[0059] Continuing to refer to Figure 8, the retaining nut 300 may include a ledge 332 extending radially inward from the inner surface 324 of the retaining nut 300 toward the dispensing axis 1. The ledge 332 may be adjacent to the distal end 308 of the retaining nut 300 and may define a distal opening 320. At least a portion of the needle 200 is configured to be axially movable along the dispensing axis 1 relative to the ledge 332. The ledge 332 defines a ledge surface 336 defined thereon and facing the receiving portion 312. The ledge surface 336 may be adjacent to the inner surface 324. The ledge surface 336 may be configured to be selectively contacted by at least a portion of the needle 200 when the needle 200 is in a seated configuration. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6, for example, when the needle 200 is seated in the retaining nut 300, the needle housing 230 is configured to contact the ledge 332. Specifically, the bottom contact surface 262 may be configured to be adjacent to and in contact with the ledge surface 336. The contact between the ledge surface 336 and the bottom contact surface 262 causes a physical stop between the needle 200 and the retaining nut 300 so as to define the furthest relative position of the needle 200 along the first axial direction 1a with respect to the retaining nut 300 when the needle 200 is in the receiving portion 312 of the retaining nut 300. The bottom contact surface 262 may contact the ledge surface 336, while the outer surfaces 238a and 238b of the proximal portion 230a and distal portion 230b of the needle housing 230 are in contact with the first portion 324a and the second portion 324b of the inner surface 324 of the retaining nut 300, respectively. Such contact between the needle housing 230 along its outer surface 238 and its bottom contact surface 262 prevents undesirable movement of the needle 200 relative to the retaining nut 300 when the needle 200 is seated within the retaining nut 300.

[0060] The seating needle 200 can be fixed to the fluid body 16 so that material dispensed from the fluid body 16 can move into and through the needle 200. As previously stated, a retaining nut 300 configured to hold the needle 200 therein can be removably fixed to the fluid body 16. In some embodiments (referring again to Figures 4 to 7), the retaining nut 300 can be screwed to the valve seat holder 150 via the mechanism described above. The retaining nut 300 can move along the dispensing axis 1, for example along the second axial direction 1b, relative to the valve seat holder 150 in a helical pattern defined, for example, by the engagement of threads 328 and 166. The retaining nut 300 can move relative to the valve seat holder 150 until the retaining nut 300 is fixed to the valve seat holder 150 and / or until it is no longer possible for the retaining nut 300 to move along the second axial direction 1b. When the retaining nut 300 is securely fastened to the valve seat holder 150, the needle housing 230 of the needle 200 held within the retaining nut 300 may come into contact with the valve seat holder 150. Referring to Figures 5 and 11, the valve seat holder 150 may define a distal contact surface 174 defined on the outer surface 151 of the distal end 158 of the valve seat holder 150. The distal contact surface 174 may be dimensioned to complement the shape and dimensions of the upper contact surface 250 of the needle housing 230. In some embodiments, both the upper contact surface 250 and the distal contact surface 174 may be arranged in a plane that is substantially planar and parallel to each other. As shown in Figure 11, when the retaining nut 300 is fully and securely fastened to the valve seat holder 150, at least a portion of the upper contact surface 250 of the needle housing 230 is configured to come into contact with at least a portion of the distal contact surface 174 of the valve seat holder 150. In such an arrangement, the needle housing 230 (and therefore the attached needle shaft 212) is axially fixed to the retaining nut 300 and the fluid body 16 due to physical contact between the ledge surface 336 and the bottom contact surface 262, and between the distal contact surface 174 of the valve seat holder 150 and the upper contact surface 250 of the needle housing 230.This prevents axial movement of the needle 200 during use, which improves the accuracy and precision of the dispensing and spraying operation, as well as reduces damage to the components.

[0061] As shown in Figure 11, when the needle 200 is in contact with the retaining nut 300 and the valve seat holder 150 and is axially fixed between them, a space 340 may be defined between the upper contact surface 250 of the needle housing 230 and the valve seat 100. Specifically, the space 340 may be defined along the dispensing axis 1 between the fluid outlet 104 and the needle inlet 220. The space 340 may be defined along the radial direction 2 by the circumferential engagement of the upper contact surface 250 with the distal contact surface 174. In some embodiments, the seal 270 may be disposed on the needle 200, on the valve seat holder 150, or both, where it may be radially spaced apart along the radial direction 2 from the dispensing axis 1. In such embodiments, the space 340 may be defined radially 2 by the seal 270. In some embodiments, the distance along the dispensing axis 1 between the fluid outlet 104 and the needle inlet 220 in space 340 may be about 0.01 mm to about 2 mm, about 0.05 mm to about 1 mm, or another preferred range. In some embodiments, this distance may be about 0.1 mm. Space 340 may have a diameter measured along the radial direction 2 of about 0.25 mm to about 2.5 mm, about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm, or another preferred range. In some embodiments, this diameter may be about 1.27 mm.

[0062] The specific arrangement of the needle 200 relative to the valve seat 100 described above allows the space 340 defined between them to have a relatively small volume compared to existing dispensers. The smaller space 340 disclosed herein results in less air being trapped between the needle inlet 220 and the fluid outlet 104 than in existing art. Less trapped air results in fewer bubbles being formed in the dispensed material, which improves the accuracy and precision of dispensing and / or spraying. Furthermore, a portion of the dispensed material may be mixed with air, which causes the formation of microbubbles in the deposited material. This can cause undesirable and / or random air pockets in the dispensed material, which can reduce the integrity of the dispensed material. The trapped air in the deposited material occupies a volume that would otherwise be filled with material, thereby reducing the desired total amount of material dispensed. This can result in insufficient coverage of the substrate by the dispensed material. As described above, by configuring and / or arranging the needle 200, the space 340 defines a smaller volume for air to be confined inside, thereby reducing the aforementioned and other drawbacks. In some embodiments, the space 340 may define a volume of about 0.05 cubic mm to about 1 cubic mm, about 0.1 cubic mm to about 0.5 cubic mm, or another preferred range. In some specific embodiments, the space 340 may define a volume of about 0.24 cubic mm. Existing systems often have significantly larger volumes, for example, up to 9 cubic mm in some devices and up to 52 cubic mm in others.

[0063] The components described throughout this application may include a variety of suitable materials, such as metals or plastics. In some embodiments, the needle 200, retaining nut 300, and valve seat holder 150 may include stainless steel, for example, 300 stainless steel. In some embodiments, one or more of the components may include polyetheretherketone (PEEK). The components described throughout this application may be manufactured by machining, casting, molding, three-dimensional printing, etc.

[0064] The embodiments described above offer various advantages over existing systems due to their ability to disassemble one or more components of the system for cleaning, repair, replacement, etc. An exemplary assembly process 400 is illustrated with reference to Figure 12. It should be noted that the exemplary assembly process 400 is merely illustrative and can be modified to be consistent with the various embodiments disclosed herein. In particular, the exemplary assembly process 400 may include any one or more embodiments of the disclosure described herein. It should be noted that the steps (processes) of the exemplary assembly process 400 may be carried out in a different order to be consistent with the embodiments described above. Furthermore, the exemplary assembly process 400 may be modified to have more or fewer process steps to be consistent with the various embodiments disclosed herein.

[0065] In step 404, the needle 200 may be introduced into the retaining nut 300. The needle 200 may be moved into the receiving portion 312 through the proximal opening 316 of the retaining nut 300. At least a portion of the needle 200 (e.g., a portion of the needle shaft 212) may be moved through the receiving portion 312 and out of the receiving portion 312 through the distal opening 320 of the retaining nut 300. At least a portion of the needle 200 (e.g., the needle housing 230) may be retained within the receiving portion 312. When the needle 200 is seated in the retaining nut 300, the retaining nut 300 may be secured to the fluid body 16 in step 408, as described throughout this application. Specifically, the retaining nut 300 may be removably engaged with the valve seat holder 150, for example, via threads. Preferably, the retaining nut 300 can be moved to engage with the valve seat holder 150 until the needle 200 is axially fixed in the receiving portion 312 between the ledge 332 of the retaining nut 300 and the distal contact surface 174 of the valve seat holder 150. At this stage, the needle 200 is fixed to the valve seat holder 150 and configured to receive material from the fluid body 16 into it. The retaining nut 300 having the needle 200 can be fixed to the fluid body 16 which is already fully assembled with the rest of the injection system 10. In some embodiments, the retaining nut 300 and the needle 200 can be operably connected to the valve seat holder 150 when the valve seat holder 150 is engaged with and fully connected to the rest of the fluid body 16. In other embodiments, the valve seat holder 150 can receive the retaining nut 300 and the needle 200 while it is separated from (or not fully engaged with) the fluid body 16. In such embodiments, process 400 may optionally include step 412, in which the valve seat holder 150 is operably secured (e.g., via threads) to the fluid body 16 as described throughout this specification. Step 412 may be performed before steps 404 and 408, or after step 404 or 408.

[0066] The retaining nut 300 and needle 200 can be connected to the fluid body 16 when the fluid body 16 is engaged with the rest of the injection system 10 and ready to operate (e.g., via the valve seat holder 150). In other embodiments, the retaining nut 300 and needle 200 can be operably connected to the fluid body 16 before the fluid body 16 is engaged with the injection system 10. In such embodiments, process 400 may optionally include step 416, in which the fluid body housing 19 is fixed to the injection dispenser 12 such that the fluid body 16 is introduced into the fluid body housing 19 and the fluid body 16 is positioned so that the valve assembly 22 is operably connected to the injection dispenser 12 to perform a desired injection or dispensing operation. Step 416 can be performed before, after, or between steps 404-412. To disassemble the injection system 10, one or more of the aforementioned steps can be reversed.

[0067] One advantage of the embodiments of this disclosure is the versatility of the components, which can be accessed for cleaning or replacement. For example, the needle 200 can be removed from the injection system 10 by removing the retaining nut 300 from the fluid body 16 while the fluid body 16 is fixed and operably connected to the injection dispenser 12, or alternatively, when the fluid body 16 is removed from the injection dispenser 12 or otherwise disengaged. Similarly, the valve seat holder 150 can be removed from the fluid body 16 for cleaning or replacement, and the valve seat holder 150 can be removed when the retaining nut 300 and needle 200 are fixed therein, or alternatively, when the retaining nut 300 and needle 200 are disengaged from the valve seat holder 150. By allowing the connection and disconnection of various components of the injection system 10 from various configurations of the injection system 10, the user can efficiently access the desired components without disassembling most of the injection system 10 and without requiring substantial assembly downtime. In some embodiments, the needle 200 may become clogged or damaged and require replacement in an efficient manner. Thus, the user can disengage the retaining nut 300 from the valve seat holder 150 and remove the needle 200 from the retaining nut 300. A new or cleaned needle 200 can be reintroduced into the retaining nut 300, and the retaining nut 300 can be re-engaged with the valve seat holder 150. This process can be achieved without disassembling other components of the injection system 10. In some embodiments, it may be advantageous to quickly replace one needle 200 with another needle 200 having a different size. The needle 200 may have variations in length, shape, and diameter (they may vary in length, shape, and diameter).

[0068] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to clean or replace the valve seat 100 within the valve seat holder 150. In some embodiments, the valve seat 100 is separable from the valve seat holder 150, can be removed, cleaned, and / or replaced. Different valve seats (e.g., those having fluid outlets 104 of different sizes) can be introduced into the valve seat holder 150. To achieve such replacement, the valve seat holder 150 can be separated from the fluid body 16, and the valve seat 100 can be removed, cleaned, replaced, and / or reinserted into the valve seat holder 150. Alternatively, in a configuration in which the valve seat 100 is integral with the rest of the valve seat holder 150, the entire valve seat holder 150 may be separated from the retaining nut 300 and the fluid body 16, cleaned / replaced, and reassembled to engage with the fluid body 16 and the retaining nut 300 which contains the needle 200 inside.

[0069] The dimensions and shapes of the system components disclosed herein improve upon existing technologies by providing easier access to the components for cleaning, repair, or replacement. The retaining nut 300 and needle 200 can be fixed to the fluid body 16 without being fixed to the fluid body housing 19, as is common in several existing technologies. This allows for easier movement of the retaining nut 300 having the needle 200 with respect to the fluid body housing 19 and the spray dispenser 12. In this way, the fluid body 16 can be removed from the fluid body housing 19 while the retaining nut 300 and needle 200 remain attached to the fluid body 16, which simplifies cleaning of the fluid body housing 19 and provides easier access to the retaining nut 300 and needle 200 on the relatively smaller fluid body 16 than when the retaining nut 300 and needle 200 are fixed directly to the spray dispenser 12. This has the additional advantage of the fluid body housing 19 having fewer (or no) engaging features, such as screw threads, which allows for easier cleaning of the fluid body housing 19 and any related components such as heaters.

[0070] Another advantage of embodiments of the present disclosure is the availability of interchangeable needles 200 for different desired uses. As previously stated, needles 200 may be manufactured to have different lengths, cross-sectional diameters, tapers, or other parameters that may affect the application of the material being dispensed. Needles 200 may generally be thin enough to fit into areas where larger dispensing nozzles used in existing technologies would not fit. In existing systems, various dispensing nozzles (used instead of needles 200 disclosed herein) are typically mounted on a spray dispenser 12. Each dispensing nozzle requires having sufficient mounting means to interact with its respective receiving means on the spray dispenser 12. In some cases, one or more adapters are commonly used to ensure proper mounting and engagement between the dispensing nozzle and the spray dispenser 12. Such a connection between the dispensing nozzle and the injection dispenser 12 results in a larger space 340 between the inlet 220 and the fluid outlet 104 of the dispensing nozzle compared to the significantly smaller space 340 between the needle inlet 220 and the fluid outlet 104 in the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0071] In some embodiments, the needle 200 may include a coating on it to improve the dispensing or spraying of material. The coating may be a phobic coating configured to repel the fluid or material being dispensed. In some embodiments, the coating may contain fluorine. The coating may be disposed on a portion of the needle 200. In some embodiments, the coating may be applied to the needle shaft 212. In certain embodiments, at least the distal end 208 of the needle 200 may include a phobic coating on it. The presence of the phobic coating allows the dispensed material to separate more easily from the needle 200 than in the absence of the phobic coating. The phobic coating reduces the surface tension between the needle shaft 212 and the dispensed or sprayed material at the needle outlet 224, and therefore reduces the amount of material that remains adhered to the needle 200 due to surface tension rather than separating from the needle 200 and moving toward the substrate. This allows for better accuracy and precision when dispensing or spraying the desired amount of material onto the substrate. If material is left on the needle 200, the substrate may accept less material than desired during the dispensing or spraying process, while the material left on the needle 200 may accumulate, eventually overcome surface tension, and be deposited on the substrate later, resulting in more material being applied to the substrate than desired.

[0072] In existing systems, a low affinity coating is typically applied to the needle shaft 212 on its external surface and on the internal surface defining the lumen 216. However, the presence of the low affinity coating within the lumen 216 results in undesirable material release from the inside to the outside of the lumen 216 through the needle outlet 224. Such release can occur during individual dispensing or spraying operations. The released material can form droplets adjacent to the distal end of the applicator in existing systems. An exemplary droplet 55 is illustrated in Figure 13 with respect to an exemplary needle 200, such as one of the embodiments illustrated throughout this application. This droplet 55 can accumulate through one or more operations of the spraying system until it becomes large and heavy enough to overcome the surface tension that holds the droplet 55 together and adheres to the needle 200. When the droplet 55 separates from the needle 200, it can be deposited on the substrate. This results in undesirable and difficult-to-measure material application to the substrate.

[0073] To overcome this problem, embodiments of the needle 200 disclosed throughout this application may be configured to accept a low affinity coating on the portion of the needle 200 so as to facilitate the separation of the material when the spray dispenser 12 is operated without substantially forming droplets 55 or other manifestations of stagnant material on the needle 200. Referring to Figure 14, a portion of the needle shaft 212 of the needle 200 according to one embodiment is illustrated. The shaft includes an outer surface 213 and an inner surface 214 spaced apart from the outer surface 213 along a radial direction 2 toward the dispensing axis 1. The lumen 216 is defined by the inner surface 214. The needle shaft 212 defines a distal surface 215 located at the distal end 208 of the needle 200. The distal surface 215 extends between the outer surface 213 and the inner surface 214 along a radial direction 2. The distal surface may be substantially planar and may be positioned in a plane perpendicular to the dispensing axis 1, but it will be understood that other shapes, dimensions, and orientations of the distal surface 215 are also conceivable.

[0074] A low-affinity coating 544 may be applied to the external surface 213. In some embodiments, the entire needle shaft 212 may receive the low-affinity coating 544, for example, between the proximal end 204 and the distal end 208 of the needle 200. In other embodiments, only a portion, not the entire, of the needle shaft 212 may receive the low-affinity coating 544. In some specific examples, the low-affinity coating 544 may be applied to about 1 / 4 of the needle shaft 212, about 1 / 3 of the needle shaft 212, about 1 / 2 of the needle shaft 212, about 2 / 3 of the needle shaft 212, about 3 / 4 of the needle shaft 212, or another proportion of the needle shaft 212. The low-affinity coating 544 may be applied from the distal end 208 of the needle 200 towards the proximal end 204 of the needle 200 along the second axial direction 1b. The low-affinity coating 544 can be applied such that the entire applied low-affinity coating 544 is not interrupted along the outer surface 213 of the needle shaft 212. In some embodiments, the low-affinity coating 544 is applied to the distal end 208 of the needle 200, or immediately adjacent thereto. In some embodiments, the needle 200 is configured to receive the low-affinity coating 544 on its distal surface 215. The low-affinity coating 544 on the distal surface 215 may be adjacent to the low-affinity coating 544 disposed on the outer surface 213.

[0075] In some embodiments, the low affinity coating 544 is not applied to the inner surface 214 of the needle shaft 212. It may be advantageous to prevent the low affinity coating 544 from being applied to the inner surface 214. In existing coating applications to dispensers, the coating is not actively removed or prevented from entering the inside of the dispenser. When coating is applied in existing systems, a portion of the applied coating may enter the inside of the dispenser and be disposed within the lumen of the dispenser. This results in undesirable functions and behaviors, as previously described in relation to Figure 13. Referring to Figures 15 to 18, a coating apparatus 500 is illustrated that allows the low affinity coating 544 to be applied to the needle 200, while preventing the low affinity coating 544 from entering the lumen 216 and preventing it from accumulating on the inner surface 214 of the needle shaft 212. In particular, the coating apparatus 500 can ensure that the low affinity coating 544 is substantially applied to the external surface 213 and substantially prevented from being applied to the internal surface 214. The coating apparatus 500 may be designed, structured, and / or configured to detachably receive a needle 200 therein. The coating apparatus 500 includes a body 504 having a lower surface 512 and an upper surface 536 spaced apart from the lower surface 512 along the vertical direction 4. One or more walls 508 extend between the lower surface 512 and the upper surface 536. The body 504 defines a chamber 520 therein between the upper surface 536, the lower surface 512, and one or more walls 508. In some embodiments, the body 504 may be substantially cylindrical such that a single wall 508 extends circumferentially around the chamber 520 between the upper surface 536 and the lower surface 512.

[0076] A retaining plate 524 may be disposed within a chamber 520 between a lower surface 512 and an upper surface 536. The retaining plate 524 may be configured to receive one or more needles 200 on which a low affinity coating 544 is intended to be received. An opening 528 may extend through the retaining plate 524. The retaining plate 524 may have a plurality of openings 528. Each opening 528 may be configured to removably receive a needle 200 through it. As shown in Figure 17, the opening 528 may be dimensioned such that a portion of the needle 200 is allowed to move through the opening 528, while another portion of the needle 200 is prevented from moving through the opening 528. In some embodiments, the opening 528 may be large enough to allow a needle shaft 212 to move through it, but not large enough to allow at least a portion of the needle housing 230 to move through it. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 17, the opening 528 may be configured such that the distal portion 230b of the needle housing 230 is accommodated within the opening 528, while the proximal portion 230a may be prevented from being received within the opening 528. The opening 528 may have the same cross-sectional shape as the needle housing 230, for example, a circular cross-section. The opening 528 may define a diameter 530. In some embodiments described above, the diameter 530 may be at least slightly larger than the second diameter 242b of the distal portion 230b of the needle housing 230 so as to allow at least the distal portion 230b of the needle housing 230 to fit within the opening 528. In some embodiments, it may be advantageous to hold the needle 200 in a substantially fixed position within the opening 528 so as to prevent the needle 200 from moving in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction 4 when the needle 200 is inside the opening 528. In such an embodiment, the diameter 530 of the opening 528 may be only slightly larger than the second diameter 242b of the distal portion 230b of the needle housing 230, such that there is sufficient tolerance to allow insertion into and removal of the opening 528 along the vertical direction 4, while substantially preventing movement along the direction perpendicular to the vertical direction 4 when the needle 230 is inside the opening 528.

[0077] Chamber 520 may be configured to receive a low-affinity coating 544 within it. It will be understood that the amount of low-affinity coating 544 in chamber 520 may depend on the number of needles 200 received in the coating apparatus 500, the length of each needle 200 (measured between the proximal end 204 and the distal end 208), and the desired portion of the needle 200 to be coated. During operation, when a needle 200 (or multiple needles 200) is received in the opening 528, at least a portion of the needle shaft 212 of the needle 200 may extend into the chamber 520 between the lower surface 512 and the retaining plate 524. At least a portion of the needle shaft 212 may be immersed in the low-affinity coating 544 disposed within chamber 520.

[0078] In some embodiments, the seal 532 may be positioned adjacent to the needle inlet 220 when the needle 200 is positioned within the opening 528. The seal 532 contacts the proximal end 204 of the needle 200 so as to cover the needle inlet 220. The seal 532 may form an airtight seal between itself and the needle 200 so as to prevent air or other gases from entering or leaving the lumen 216 through the needle inlet 220. By closing the needle inlet 220, the seal 532 prevents air contained within the lumen 216 from being displaced through the needle inlet 220 by the low affinity coating 544 when the distal end 208 and the needle outlet 224 are positioned in fluid communication with the low affinity coating 544 in the chamber 520. If the seal 532 is not present, the low affinity coating 544 may enter the lumen 216 through the needle outlet 224 and thereby come into contact with the inner surface 214 of the needle shaft 212. The low affinity coating 544 can move further up the lumen 216 toward the proximal end 204 of the needle 200 by capillary action. The seal 532 prevents air in the lumen 216 from escaping through the needle inlet 220 and therefore does not allow the creation of a vacuum in the lumen 216 that can be filled by the low affinity coating 544. This allows the low affinity coating 544 to come into contact with and be applied to desired portions of the needle 200 (e.g., the distal surface 215 and at least a portion of the outer surface 213), while substantially preventing the inner surface 214 from receiving the low affinity coating 544. However, segmental (discrete) and / or limited application of the low affinity coating 544 can also be implemented in many different ways, such as those intended by this disclosure.

[0079] The upper surface 536 may be a closure, cover, or lid 536 configured to be positioned over a chamber 520 having needles 200 and a low affinity coating 544 inside. The lid 536 may include a fastening means 540 configured to removably attach the lid 536 to the body 504. The fastening means 540 may include a threaded fastener, a snap fit, a lever, a clamp, or another preferred fastening mechanism. In some embodiments, the seal 532 may be forcibly held against the proximal ends 204 of each needle 200 disposed on a retaining plate 524 to form an airtight seal. The seal 532 may be compressed and positioned between each needle 200 and the lid 536 by the operation of the fastening means 540, causing the lid 536 to move toward the retaining plate 524. To release the airtight seal, the fastening means 540 may be actuated in the opposite direction, causing the lid 536 to move toward the retaining plate 524.

[0080] Referring to the coating process 600 illustrated in Figure 19, it should be noted that the coating process 600 is merely illustrative and may be modified in accordance with the various embodiments disclosed herein. In particular, the coating process 600 may include any one or more embodiments of the disclosure described herein. It should be noted that the steps (processes) of the coating process 600 may be carried out in a different order to match the embodiments described above. Furthermore, the coating process 600 may be modified to have more or fewer process steps to match the various embodiments disclosed herein.

[0081] In step 604, the needle 200 may be introduced into the coating apparatus 500 as previously described. The coating apparatus 500 may be configured to receive one or more needles 200. It will be understood that the overall size of the coating apparatus 500 and the number of openings 528 will depend on the number of needles 200 intended to be received into the coating apparatus 500 at one time.

[0082] In step 608, an airtight seal may be formed between the seal 532 and the needle 200, as described above. The coating apparatus 500 may include a plurality of seals 532, each of which is positioned in contact with its respective needle 200, or the coating apparatus 500 may include a single seal 532 configured to contact all of the needles 200 in the coating apparatus 500 simultaneously. However, the segmental (discrete) and / or limited application of the low affinity coating 544 can also be implemented in many different ways, such as those intended by this disclosure.

[0083] In step 612, the low affinity coating 544 may be introduced into the chamber 520. The low affinity coating can be any suitable coating material. In some embodiments, the low affinity coating 544 contains fluorine. The needle 200 is at least partially immersed and held in the low affinity coating 544 for a predetermined time. This duration may depend on the specific coating used and other specifications of the coating process. The low affinity coating 544 may be introduced into the chamber 520 before the needle 200 is introduced therein, or alternatively, after the needle 200 is fixed to the retaining plate 524.

[0084] In step 616, the applied low affinity coating 544 may be cured to ensure that the coating has the desired parameters and is permanently fixed to the needle 200. The curing step may include a step of allowing the needle 200 to dry and evaporate any excess low affinity coating 544. In some embodiments, the coated needle 200 may be placed in a curing oven (not shown) to heat the needle 200 to a predetermined temperature to ensure that the low affinity coating 544 is cured and / or fixed to the needle 200 and exhibits the desired low affinity properties. It will be understood that the specific parameters for curing the coating, such as steps, temperature, and duration, will depend on the materials constituting the coating and needle 200 used. In some embodiments, the needle 200 is configured to be held within the coating apparatus 500 for the entire duration of the coating process 600.

[0085] In some embodiments, any additional steps may be employed during the coating process 600. For example, the needle 200 may first be properly cleaned before being fixed in the coating apparatus 500. In some embodiments, the needle 200 may be treated with plasma to remove any undesirable material (such as oil) present on the surface of the needle shaft 212 to be coated. It will also be understood that other steps common in similar coating procedures may be utilized. This disclosure is not limited to the specific exemplary steps described above. Unless otherwise stated, one or more of the steps illustrated in the coating process 600 may be performed in a different order than the other steps of the coating process 600, and the steps may be repeated multiple times to achieve the desired coating effect.

[0086] The following are non-limiting embodiments of the embodiments of this disclosure. One embodiment includes: Embodiment 1 is a fluid body for use with an injection dispenser, the fluid body being configured to receive a fluid therein and to eject the fluid therefrom, the fluid body comprising: a fluid inlet configured to receive the fluid from a fluid source; a fluid outlet configured to discharge the fluid from the fluid body; a chamber defined between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet and configured to receive the fluid therein; a valve seat disposed within the chamber, the fluid outlet extending through the valve seat; a valve element configured for reciprocating movement within the chamber between a first position in contact with the valve seat and a second position spaced apart from the valve seat; a dispensing needle detachable from the fluid body and configured to receive the fluid from the fluid outlet; and a retaining nut configured to detachably secure the dispensing needle to the fluid body such that the dispensing needle is adjacent to the fluid outlet and in contact with the fluid body.

[0087] The embodiments described above may further include any one or more combinations of the following embodiments. Embodiment 2 is a fluid body of any embodiment characterized in that the dispensing needle comprises a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end, a lumen defined through the shaft between the proximal end and the distal end, a needle inlet disposed at the proximal end and in fluid communication with the lumen, configured to receive the fluid into the lumen from the fluid outlet, a needle outlet disposed at the distal end and in fluid communication with the lumen, and a housing enclosing at least a portion of the shaft between the proximal end and the distal end, wherein the dispensing needle defines an upper contact surface configured to be positioned in contact with the fluid body, and when the dispensing needle is in contact with the fluid body, a space is defined between the dispensing needle and the fluid body, the space is adjacent to the fluid outlet and in fluid communication with the fluid outlet and the needle inlet. Example 3 is a fluid body of any of the embodiments, characterized in that the housing of the dispensing needle is substantially cylindrical. Embodiment 4 is a fluid body of any embodiment, characterized in that the housing of the dispensing needle includes a proximal portion and a distal portion adjacent to the proximal portion, the proximal portion having a first diameter, the distal portion having a second diameter, and the first diameter being larger than the second diameter. Embodiment 5 is a fluid body according to any embodiment, characterized in that the upper contact surface is configured to receive a seal thereon, and when the dispensing needle is in contact with the fluid body, the seal is compressed and held between the dispensing needle and the fluid body. Example 6 is a fluid body of any of the embodiments, characterized in that the space defines a volume of approximately 0.05 cubic mm to approximately 1 cubic mm. Embodiment 7 is a fluid body according to any embodiment, characterized in that the retaining nut is configured to receive the dispensing needle therein, and the retaining nut is configured to detachably connect the fluid body to the dispensing needle within the retaining nut. Embodiment 8 is a fluid body of any embodiment, characterized in that the retaining nut defines a receiving portion between a proximal opening at the proximal end of the retaining nut and a distal opening at the distal end of the retaining nut opposite the proximal end, the dispensing needle is receivable within the receiving portion, the retaining nut includes a ledge that extends radially into the receiving portion adjacent to the distal end and defines the distal opening, the proximal opening has a first diameter, the distal opening has a second diameter, the first diameter of the proximal opening is greater than the second diameter of the distal opening, the retaining nut is configured to receive the dispensing needle into the receiving portion through the proximal opening, and the retaining nut is configured to allow a portion, not the whole, of the dispensing needle to move out of the receiving portion through the distal opening. Embodiment 9 is a fluid body of any embodiment, characterized in that the retaining nut defines an internal surface having a first portion and a second portion adjacent to the first portion, the first portion having a first diameter larger than the second diameter of the second portion, and when the dispensing needle is received in the retaining nut, the proximal portion of the housing is received in the first portion of the retaining nut, and the distal portion of the housing is received in the second portion of the retaining nut. Example 10 is a fluid body according to any of the embodiments, characterized in that when the dispensing needle is in contact with and fixed to the fluid body via the retaining nut, the dispensing needle is prevented from moving relative to the fluid body. Example 11 is a fluid body of any of the embodiments, characterized in that the valve seat is disposed on a valve seat holder which is detachably connected to the fluid body. Example 12 is a fluid body according to any of the embodiments, characterized in that the retaining nut is configured to be detachably attached to the valve seat holder. Example 13 is a fluid body of any embodiment, characterized in that the retaining nut includes a thread configured to removably engage with a corresponding thread on the fluid body. Example 14 is a fluid body of any of the embodiments, characterized in that the dispensing needle includes a coating thereon, and the coating is configured to reduce surface tension. Example 15 is a fluid body of any of the examples, characterized in that the coating contains fluorine. Example 16 is a fluid body of any of the embodiments, characterized in that the dispensing needle includes the coating on its outer surface, but lacks the coating on its inner surface defining the lumen. Embodiment 17 is an injection system characterized by comprising a fluid body according to any embodiment and an injection dispenser having an actuator configured to cause a reciprocating motion of the valve element toward and away from the valve seat, thereby moving the fluid in the chamber out of the fluid outlet and into the dispensing needle. Embodiment 18 is an injection system of any embodiment, further comprising a fluid body housing configured to removably receive the fluid body therein, wherein the fluid body housing is movable between a first position in which the fluid body is fixed to the injection dispenser so that the valve element can be actuated by the actuator of the injection dispenser, and a second position in which the fluid body is separated from the injection dispenser, and when the fluid body housing is in the second position, the fluid body is removable from the fluid body housing and separable from the injection system.

[0088] One embodiment includes the following: Embodiment 19 is a needle coating holder for applying a coating to a dispensing needle for use with a spray system, comprising: a body defining a chamber configured to receive the coating; a needle holding plate adjacent to the chamber defining an opening extending through it, the opening configured to receive the dispensing needle; and a cover selectively positioned to contact the dispensing needle disposed within the needle holding plate, wherein an airtight seal is formed between the cover and the needle inlet of the dispensing needle when the cover is positioned in contact with the dispensing needle.

[0089] The embodiments described above may further include any one or more combinations of the following embodiments. Example 20 is a needle coating holder according to any of the embodiments, further comprising an elastomer seal between the cover and the dispensing needle.

[0090] One embodiment includes the following: Embodiment 21 is a fluid body for use with a spray dispenser, the fluid body being configured to receive a fluid therein and to spray the fluid therefrom, the fluid body comprising a fluid inlet configured to receive the fluid from a fluid source, a fluid outlet configured to discharge the fluid from the fluid body, a chamber defined between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet and configured to receive the fluid therein, a valve seat disposed within the chamber, the valve seat through which the fluid outlet extends, and a valve element A fluid body is characterized by comprising: a valve element configured for reciprocating movement within the chamber between a first position in which the valve element is in contact with the valve seat and a second position in which the valve element is separated from the valve seat; a dispensing needle that is separable from the fluid body and configured to receive the fluid from the fluid outlet; and a retaining component configured to removably fix the dispensing needle to the fluid body such that the dispensing needle is in contact with the fluid body adjacent to the fluid outlet.

[0091] The embodiments described above may further include any one or more combinations of the following embodiments. Embodiment 22 is a fluid body of any embodiment characterized in that the dispensing needle comprises a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end; a lumen defined through the shaft between the proximal end and the distal end; a needle inlet disposed at the proximal end and in fluid communication with the lumen, configured to receive the fluid into the lumen from the fluid outlet; a needle outlet disposed at the distal end and in fluid communication with the lumen; and a housing enclosing at least a portion of the shaft between the proximal end and the distal end, wherein the dispensing needle defines an upper contact surface configured to be positioned in contact with the fluid body, and when the dispensing needle is in contact with the fluid body, a space is defined between the dispensing needle and the fluid body, the space is adjacent to the fluid outlet and in fluid communication with the fluid outlet and the needle inlet. Example 23 is a fluid body of any embodiment, characterized in that the housing of the dispensing needle is substantially cylindrical. Example 24 is a fluid body of any embodiment, characterized in that the housing of the dispensing needle includes a proximal portion and a distal portion adjacent to the proximal portion, the proximal portion having a first diameter, the distal portion having a second diameter, and the first diameter being larger than the second diameter. Example 25 is a fluid body according to any of the embodiments, characterized in that the upper contact surface is configured to receive a seal thereon, and when the dispensing needle is in contact with the fluid body, the seal is compressed and held between the dispensing needle and the fluid body. Example 26 is a fluid body of any of the embodiments, characterized in that the space defines a volume of approximately 0.05 cubic mm to approximately 1 cubic mm. Example 27 is a fluid body according to any embodiment, characterized in that the retaining component is configured to receive the dispensing needle therein, and the retaining component is configured to detachably connect the fluid body to the dispensing needle within the retaining component. Embodiment 28 is a fluid body of any embodiment, characterized in that the retaining component defines a receiving portion between a proximal opening at the proximal end of the retaining component and a distal opening at the distal end of the retaining component opposite the proximal end, the dispensing needle is receivable within the receiving portion, the retaining component includes a ledge that extends radially into the receiving portion adjacent to the distal end and defines the distal opening, the proximal opening has a first diameter, the distal opening has a second diameter, the first diameter of the proximal opening is greater than the second diameter of the distal opening, the retaining component is configured to receive the dispensing needle into the receiving portion through the proximal opening, and the retaining component is configured to allow a portion, not the whole, of the dispensing needle to move out of the receiving portion through the distal opening. Example 29 is a fluid body of any embodiment, characterized in that the retaining component defines an internal surface having a first portion and a second portion adjacent to the first portion, the first portion having a first diameter larger than the second diameter of the second portion, and when the dispensing needle is received within the retaining component, the proximal portion of the housing is received within the first portion of the retaining component, and the distal portion of the housing is received within the second portion of the retaining component. Example 30 is a fluid body according to any of the embodiments, characterized in that when the dispensing needle is in contact with and fixed to the fluid body via the holding component, the dispensing needle is prevented from moving relative to the fluid body. Example 31 is a fluid body according to any of the embodiments, characterized in that the valve seat is disposed on a valve seat holder which is detachably connected to the fluid body. Example 32 is a fluid body according to any of the embodiments, characterized in that the retaining component is configured to be detachably attached to the valve seat holder. Example 33 is a fluid body of any embodiment, characterized in that the retaining component includes a thread configured to removably engage with a corresponding thread on the fluid body. Example 34 is a fluid body of any of the embodiments, characterized in that the dispensing needle includes a coating thereon, and the coating is configured to reduce surface tension. Example 35 is a fluid body of any of the examples, characterized in that the coating contains fluorine. Example 36 is a fluid body of any of the embodiments, characterized in that the dispensing needle includes the coating on its outer surface, but lacks the coating on its inner surface defining the lumen. Embodiment 37 is an injection system characterized by comprising a fluid body of any embodiment and an injection dispenser having an actuator configured to cause a reciprocating motion of the valve element toward and away from the valve seat, thereby moving the fluid in the chamber out of the fluid outlet and into the dispensing needle. Embodiment 38 is an injection system of any embodiment, further comprising a fluid body housing configured to removably receive the fluid body therein, wherein the fluid body housing is movable between a first position in which the fluid body is fixed to the injection dispenser so that the valve element can be actuated by the actuator of the injection dispenser, and a second position in which the fluid body is separated from the injection dispenser, and when the fluid body housing is in the second position, the fluid body is removable from the fluid body housing and separable from the injection system.

[0092] One embodiment includes the following: Embodiment 39 is a fluid body for use with an injection dispenser, the fluid body being configured to receive a fluid therein and to eject the fluid therefrom, the fluid body comprising: a fluid inlet configured to receive the fluid from a fluid source; a fluid outlet configured to discharge the fluid from the fluid body; a chamber defined between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet and configured to receive the fluid therein; a valve seat disposed within the chamber, the fluid outlet extending through the valve seat; a valve element configured for reciprocating movement within the chamber between a first position in contact with the valve seat and a second position spaced apart from the valve seat; and a dispensing needle detachable from the fluid body and configured to receive the fluid from the fluid outlet, wherein the dispensing needle includes a coating thereon, the coating configured to reduce surface tension.

[0093] The embodiments described above may further include any one or more combinations of the following embodiments. Example 40 is a fluid body of any of the examples, characterized in that the coating contains fluorine. Example 41 is a fluid body of any of the embodiments, characterized in that the dispensing needle includes the coating on its outer surface, but lacks the coating on its inner surface that defines the lumen. Embodiment 42 is a fluid body of any embodiment characterized in that the dispensing needle comprises a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end; a lumen defined through the shaft between the proximal end and the distal end; a needle inlet disposed at the proximal end and in fluid communication with the lumen, configured to receive the fluid into the lumen from the fluid outlet; a needle outlet disposed at the distal end and in fluid communication with the lumen; and a housing enclosing at least a portion of the shaft between the proximal end and the distal end, wherein the dispensing needle defines an upper contact surface configured to be positioned in contact with the fluid body, and when the dispensing needle is in contact with the fluid body, a space is defined between the dispensing needle and the fluid body, the space is adjacent to the fluid outlet and in fluid communication with the fluid outlet and the needle inlet. Example 43 is a fluid body of any embodiment, characterized in that the housing of the dispensing needle is substantially cylindrical. Example 44 is a fluid body of any embodiment, characterized in that the housing of the dispensing needle includes a proximal portion and a distal portion adjacent to the proximal portion, the proximal portion having a first diameter, the distal portion having a second diameter, and the first diameter being larger than the second diameter. Example 45 is a fluid body according to any of the embodiments, characterized in that the upper contact surface is configured to receive a seal thereon, and when the dispensing needle is in contact with the fluid body, the seal is compressed and held between the dispensing needle and the fluid body. Example 46 is a fluid body of any of the embodiments, characterized in that the space defines a volume of approximately 0.05 cubic mm to approximately 1 cubic mm. Embodiment 47 is a fluid body according to any embodiment, further comprising a retaining component, wherein the retaining component is configured to receive the dispensing needle, and the retaining component is configured to detachably connect the fluid body to the dispensing needle within the retaining component. Embodiment 48 is a fluid body of any embodiment, characterized in that the retaining component defines a receiving portion between a proximal opening at the proximal end of the retaining component and a distal opening at the distal end of the retaining component opposite the proximal end, the dispensing needle is receivable within the receiving portion, the retaining component includes a ledge that extends radially into the receiving portion adjacent to the distal end and defines the distal opening, the proximal opening has a first diameter, the distal opening has a second diameter, the first diameter of the proximal opening is greater than the second diameter of the distal opening, the retaining component is configured to receive the dispensing needle into the receiving portion through the proximal opening, and the retaining component is configured to allow a portion, not the whole, of the dispensing needle to move out of the receiving portion through the distal opening. Embodiment 49 is a fluid body of any embodiment, characterized in that the retaining component defines an internal surface having a first portion and a second portion adjacent to the first portion, the first portion having a first diameter larger than the second diameter of the second portion, and when the dispensing needle is received within the retaining component, the proximal portion of the housing is received within the first portion of the retaining component, and the distal portion of the housing is received within the second portion of the retaining component. Example 50 is a fluid body according to any of the embodiments, characterized in that when the dispensing needle is in contact with and fixed to the fluid body via the holding component, the dispensing needle is prevented from moving relative to the fluid body. Example 51 is a fluid body of any of the embodiments, characterized in that the valve seat is disposed on a valve seat holder which is detachably connected to the fluid body. Example 52 is a fluid body according to any of the embodiments, characterized in that the retaining component is configured to be detachably attached to the valve seat holder. Example 53 is a fluid body of any embodiment, characterized in that the retaining component includes a thread configured to removably engage with a corresponding thread on the fluid body.

[0094] While the systems and methods have been described in relation to various embodiments of various figures, those skilled in the art will understand that modifications can be made to the embodiments without departing from the broader inventive concept of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and modifications within the spirit and scope of this disclosure as defined by the claims are intended.

Claims

1. 1. A fluid body for use with a jetting dispenser, comprising: the fluid body being configured to receive a fluid therein and to eject the fluid therefrom; The fluid body includes: a fluid inlet configured to receive the fluid from a fluid source; a fluid outlet configured to exhaust the fluid from the fluid body; a chamber defined between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet and configured to receive the fluid therein; a valve seat disposed within the chamber, the fluid outlet extending through the valve seat; a valve element configured for reciprocating movement within the chamber between a first position in which the valve element is in contact with the valve seat and a second position in which the valve element is spaced from the valve seat; a dispensing needle separable from the fluid body and configured to receive the fluid from the fluid outlet; a retaining component configured to removably secure the dispensing needle to the fluid body such that the dispensing needle contacts the fluid body adjacent the fluid outlet; A fluid body comprising:

2. The dispensing needle comprises: a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end; a lumen defined through the shaft between the proximal end and the distal end; a needle inlet disposed at the proximal end and in fluid communication with the lumen, the needle inlet configured to receive the fluid from the fluid outlet into the lumen; a needle outlet disposed at the distal end and in fluid communication with the lumen; a housing enclosing at least a portion of the shaft between the proximal end and the distal end; It has the dispensing needle defines an upper contact surface configured to be placed in contact with the fluid body; A space is defined between the dispensing needle and the fluid body when the dispensing needle is in contact with the fluid body, the space being adjacent to the fluid outlet and in fluid communication with the fluid outlet and the needle inlet.

2. The fluid body according to claim 1 .

3. The housing of the dispensing needle is substantially cylindrical.

3. The fluid body according to claim 2.

4. the housing of the dispensing needle includes a proximal portion and a distal portion adjacent the proximal portion; the proximal portion has a first diameter; the distal portion has a second diameter; The first diameter is greater than the second diameter.

4. The fluid body according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The upper contact surface is configured to receive a seal thereon, such that the seal is held in compression between the dispensing needle and the fluid body when the dispensing needle is in contact with the fluid body.

5. The fluid body according to claim 2, wherein the fluid body is a cylindrical body.

6. The space defines a volume of about 0.05 cubic mm to about 1 cubic mm.

6. The fluid body according to claim 2, wherein the fluid body is a cylindrical body.

7. the holding component is configured to receive the dispensing needle therein; The holding component is configured to removably connect the fluid body to the dispensing needle within the holding component.

7. A fluid body according to claim 1, wherein the fluid body is a cylindrical body.

8. the holding component defines a receiver between a proximal opening at a proximal end of the holding component and a distal opening at a distal end of the holding component opposite the proximal end; the dispensing needle is receivable within the receptacle; the retention component includes a ledge extending radially into the receiver adjacent the distal end and defining the distal opening; the proximal opening has a first diameter and the distal opening has a second diameter, the first diameter of the proximal opening being greater than the second diameter of the distal opening; the holding component is configured to receive the dispensing needle through the proximal opening and into the receiver; The retention component is configured to allow a portion, but not all, of the dispensing needle to be moved out of the receiver through the distal opening.

8. A fluid body according to claim 1, wherein the fluid body is a cylindrical body.

9. the retention component defines an interior surface having a first portion and a second portion adjacent the first portion; the first portion has a first diameter greater than a second diameter of the second portion; When the dispensing needle is received within the holding component, the proximal portion of the housing is received within the first portion of the holding component and the distal portion of the housing is received within the second portion of the holding component.

5. The fluid body according to claim 4.

10. When the dispensing needle is secured in contact with the fluid body via the retaining component, the dispensing needle is prevented from moving relative to the fluid body.

10. A fluid body according to any one of the preceding claims.

11. The valve seat is disposed on a valve seat holder that is removably connectable to the fluid body.

11. A fluid body according to any one of the preceding claims.

12. The retaining component is configured to be removably attached to the valve seat holder.

12. The fluid body according to claim 11.

13. The retention component includes threads configured to removably engage corresponding threads on the fluid body.

13. A fluid body according to any one of the preceding claims.

14. the dispensing needle including a coating thereon; The coating is configured to reduce surface tension.

14. A fluid body according to any one of the preceding claims.

15. The coating comprises fluorine.

15. The fluid body according to claim 14.

16. The dispensing needle includes the coating on an exterior surface thereof and is devoid of the coating on an interior surface thereof that defines a lumen.

16. The fluid body according to claim 14 or 15.

17. The retention component defines a retention nut.

17. A fluid body according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that

18. 1. An injection system comprising: A fluid body according to any one of claims 1 to 17; a jetting dispenser having an actuator configured to cause reciprocating movement of the valve element toward and away from the valve seat to move the fluid in the chamber out the fluid outlet and into the dispensing needle; An injection system comprising:

19. a fluid body housing configured to removably receive the fluid body therein; Further comprising: the fluid body housing is movable between a first position in which the fluid body is secured to the jetting dispenser such that the valve element is actuable by the actuator of the jetting dispenser, and a second position in which the fluid body is spaced from the jetting dispenser; When the fluid body housing is in the second position, the fluid body is removable from the fluid body housing and separable from the injection system.

20. An injection system according to claim 18.

20. 1. A fluid body for use with a jetting dispenser, comprising: the fluid body being configured to receive a fluid therein and to eject the fluid therefrom; The fluid body includes: a fluid inlet configured to receive the fluid from a fluid source; a fluid outlet configured to exhaust the fluid from the fluid body; a chamber defined between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet and configured to receive the fluid therein; a valve seat disposed within the chamber, the fluid outlet extending through the valve seat; a valve element configured for reciprocating movement within the chamber between a first position in which the valve element is in contact with the valve seat and a second position in which the valve element is spaced from the valve seat; a dispensing needle separable from the fluid body and configured to receive the fluid from the fluid outlet; Equipped with the dispensing needle including a coating thereon; The coating is configured to reduce surface tension. A fluid body comprising:

21. The coating comprises fluorine.

21. A fluid body according to claim 20.

22. The dispensing needle includes the coating on an exterior surface thereof and is devoid of the coating on an interior surface thereof that defines the lumen.

22. A fluid body according to claim 21.

23. The dispensing needle comprises: a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end; a lumen defined through the shaft between the proximal end and the distal end; a needle inlet disposed at the proximal end and in fluid communication with the lumen, the needle inlet configured to receive the fluid from the fluid outlet into the lumen; a needle outlet disposed at the distal end and in fluid communication with the lumen; a housing enclosing at least a portion of the shaft between the proximal end and the distal end; It has the dispensing needle defines an upper contact surface configured to be placed in contact with the fluid body; A space is defined between the dispensing needle and the fluid body when the dispensing needle is in contact with the fluid body, the space being adjacent to the fluid outlet and in fluid communication with the fluid outlet and the needle inlet.

21. A fluid body according to claim 20.

24. The housing of the dispensing needle is substantially cylindrical.

24. A fluid body according to claim 23.

25. the housing of the dispensing needle includes a proximal portion and a distal portion adjacent the proximal portion; the proximal portion has a first diameter; the distal portion has a second diameter; The first diameter is greater than the second diameter.

25. A fluid body according to claim 23 or 24.

26. The upper contact surface is configured to receive a seal thereon, such that the seal is held in compression between the dispensing needle and the fluid body when the dispensing needle is in contact with the fluid body.

26. A fluid body according to any one of claims 23 to 25.

27. The space defines a volume of about 0.05 cubic mm to about 1 cubic mm.

27. A fluid body according to any one of claims 23 to 26.

28. retention component Further comprising: the holding component is configured to receive the dispensing needle therein; The holding component is configured to removably connect the fluid body to the dispensing needle within the holding component.

28. A fluid body according to any one of claims 20 to 27.

29. the holding component defines a receiver between a proximal opening at a proximal end of the holding component and a distal opening at a distal end of the holding component opposite the proximal end; the dispensing needle is receivable within the receptacle; the retention component includes a ledge extending radially into the receiver adjacent the distal end and defining the distal opening; the proximal opening has a first diameter and the distal opening has a second diameter, the first diameter of the proximal opening being greater than the second diameter of the distal opening; the holding component is configured to receive the dispensing needle through the proximal opening and into the receiver; The retention component is configured to allow a portion, but not all, of the dispensing needle to be moved out of the receiver through the distal opening.

29. A fluid body according to any one of claims 20 to 28.

30. the retention component defines an interior surface having a first portion and a second portion adjacent the first portion; the first portion has a first diameter greater than a second diameter of the second portion; When the dispensing needle is received within the holding component, the proximal portion of the housing is received within the first portion of the holding component and the distal portion of the housing is received within the second portion of the holding component.

26. A fluid body according to claim 25.

31. When the dispensing needle is secured in contact with the fluid body via the retaining component, the dispensing needle is prevented from moving relative to the fluid body.

31. A fluid body according to any one of claims 20 to 30.

32. The valve seat is disposed on a valve seat holder that is removably connectable to the fluid body.

32. A fluid body according to any one of claims 20 to 31.

33. The retaining component is configured to be removably attached to the valve seat holder.

33. A fluid body according to claim 32.

34. The retention component includes threads configured to removably engage corresponding threads on the fluid body.

34. A fluid body according to any one of claims 20 to 33.

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