Dispensing system, dispensing outlet, and cartridge

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dispensing system, a dispensing outlet for use with the dispensing system, and a cartridge for use with the dispensing system. The dispensing system (10) comprises a dispensing outlet (12), a valve element, and a cartridge having a cartridge outlet with a longitudinal axis (A) extending along the cartridge outlet, the valve element being slidably disposed in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis at an interface (18) between the cartridge outlet and the dispensing outlet (12), and the dispensing outlet (12) being insertable into the interface (18) for sliding the valve element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a dispensing system, a dispensing outlet for use with the dispensing system, and a cartridge for use with the dispensing system. The dispensing system includes a dispensing outlet, a valve element, and a cartridge having a longitudinal axis extending along a cartridge outlet, the valve element being slidably disposed in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis at an interface between the cartridge outlet and the dispensing outlet, and the dispensing outlet being insertable into the interface for sliding the valve element.

Background Art

[0002] Dispensing systems exist in a number of forms that can be used in a wide range of applications, from dental, medical, veterinary to industrial applications.

[0003] Dispensing systems typically have an outlet that can be connected to a cartridge to guide the material stored in the cartridge to the application location via the outlet. When dispensing two-component materials such as adhesives, paints, molding materials, impression materials, etc., the outlet portion of the dispensing system typically includes a mixer to mix the two components for the purpose of generally ideal dispensing.

[0004] Often, dispensing systems are made of plastic parts, and specifically, the outlet, i.e., the mixer, is a disposable part that is discarded each time it is used. When the outlet is discarded, the remaining dispensed material also contributes to the waste material.

[0005] Following the use and disposal of the dispensing system, the material remaining in the cartridge is stored in the cartridge for further use.

Summary of the Invention

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to provide a dispensing system that can improve the lifespan of materials stored in the dispensing system. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a dispensing system that is simple to manufacture and reliable in use. It is yet a further object to reduce the amount of waste associated with the dispensing system.

[0007] This object is met by the subject matter of the respective independent claims.

[0008] Such a dispensing system comprises a dispensing outlet, a valve element, and a cartridge having a cartridge outlet that extends along a longitudinal axis, particularly in the direction of dispensing material from the dispensing outlet. The valve element is slidably disposed in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis at an interface between the cartridge outlet and the dispensing outlet, and is configured to open and close the cartridge outlet to dispense material from the cartridge outlet. A part of the dispensing outlet is insertable into the interface, particularly for entrainment of the valve element in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis, such as from a closed position to an open position of the valve element. In particular, after removal of the dispensing outlet, the valve element is shifted automatically back from the open position to the closed position to seal the cartridge outlet.

[0009] Therefore, by using such a dispensing system, it is possible to reliably ensure that the opening and closing of the valve element increases the lifespan of the material stored in the cartridge.

[0010] In this regard, it should be noted that the valve element can be shifted from the closed position when the dispensing outlet is not attached in the open position during attachment of the dispensing outlet in order to dispense the material stored in the cartridge from the cartridge. Following use of the cartridge and removal of the cartridge outlet, the valve element is slid back to the closed position to close the cartridge. In this way, the material stored in the cartridge can be stored for a longer period of time.

[0011] By providing a sliding valve element instead of a rotating valve element, the force applied for opening and closing the valve element can be considered in one direction, enabling more reliable opening and closing of the cartridge. This means that the sliding valve element does not rotate when it is moved.

[0012] In this regard, it should be noted that the dispensing outlet can also be referred to as the tip of static or dynamic mixing.

[0013] In this regard, it should further be noted that the cartridge outlet is part of a cartridge configured to have an outlet passage from each cartridge chamber of the cartridge and to be connected to the dispensing outlet.

[0014] In this regard, it should further be noted that the interface surface comprises a part of the cartridge outlet and a part of the dispensing outlet configured to cooperate with each other for attaching the dispensing outlet to the cartridge outlet.

[0015] It should further be noted that the cartridge may have a piston and / or a plunger disposed in the cartridge for dispensing the material in as simple a manner as possible via the dispensing system.

[0016] Thus, as discussed above, the valve element can slide transversely with respect to the cartridge from the closed position to the open position and from the open position to the closed position.

[0017] Following the transverse sliding of the valve element with respect to the cartridge from the closed position to the open position, the dispensing outlet can be locked to the cartridge outlet against movement along the longitudinal axis. Similarly, when the valve element is moved with respect to the cartridge from the open position to the closed position, the dispensing outlet can be unlocked for movement along the longitudinal axis, and in this way, the engagement with the cartridge can be released.

[0018] The valve element may not be removable from the interface surface. In this regard, it should be noted that the valve element cannot be removed during normal use of the dispensing system. However, it may be possible to remove the valve element through the use of tools, or, if excessive force is applied, this will result in the destruction of the cartridge outlet.

[0019] The valve element may only slide relative to the interface surface along one axis, preferably only along one axis. In this way, the valve can control the direction in which it is moved between the open position and the closed position, and between the closed position and the open position.

[0020] At least a part of the dispensing outlet may be insertable into the valve element. In this way, the components can cooperate with each other to prevent leakage of material and avoid contamination between the cartridge outlet and the dispensing outlet.

[0021] At least one part may comprise one or more inlet passages and / or wings. Materials can be guided in such inlet passages from the cartridge, if provided, to the mixing element and to the outlet of the dispensing outlet.

[0022] The dispensing outlet may comprise a cover disc covering the interface surface. In this way, it is possible to avoid contamination, such as dust or spat out mixed materials, from reaching the components of the interface surface when dripping from the outlet of the dispensing outlet.

[0023] The dispensing outlet may further comprise an annular portion. Such an annular portion can further increase the protection against contamination.

[0024] The annular portion can at least partially surround the interface surface and the cartridge outlet. This is a simple-to-manufacture additional level of protection against contamination.

[0025] The annular part can at least partially surround the boundary surface and can be at least partially arranged inside the cartridge outlet. In this way, a relatively compact assembly can be realized.

[0026] The valve element can comprise an elongated plate with one or more through-holes. Such a valve element is simple to manufacture and can ensure simple assembly with the cartridge.

[0027] One or more through-holes can be aligned with the cartridge outlet for opening the cartridge outlet for dispensing, that is, when the valve element is shifted to the open position, one or more through-holes can be aligned with the cartridge outlet to dispense the material stored in the cartridge.

[0028] The cartridge outlet may comprise one or more cartridge outlet passages. Such cartridge outlet passages can dispense the material stored in the cartridge in a guided manner.

[0029] The valve element can be slidably arranged so that one or more through-holes are aligned with one or more cartridge outlet passages to open the cartridge outlet for dispensing, and so that one or more through-holes are shifted from one or more cartridge outlet passages to close the cartridge outlet. In this connection, it should be noted that in the closed position of the valve element, the through-holes do not cover any part of the cartridge outlet passage and the cartridge outlet passage is completely covered by a part of the valve element without through-holes. In this way, the cartridge outlet can be beneficially sealed from the outside when the valve element is in the closed position.

[0030] The valve element may comprise a protrusion extending parallel to the longitudinal axis. Preferably, the protrusion extends towards the dispensing outlet in the assembled dispensing system. Such a protrusion can assist in opening and closing the valve element during use of the dispensing system. Further, such a protrusion can also help to maintain the valve element in the closed position before and after use of the dispensing system by providing a seal between the valve element and the cartridge.

[0031] The valve element may comprise one or more protrusions extending along the longitudinal axis towards the cartridge. Such protrusions can assist in sealing the cartridge before and after use of the dispensing system.

[0032] The valve element may be received in one or more conduits at the cartridge outlet. Such conduits can ensure accurate guidance of the valve element during the sliding movement of the valve element between the closed and open positions.

[0033] The protrusion can be held in one direction by a component of the cartridge at the cartridge outlet. In this way, the valve element can be fixed in the closed position during storage of the dispensing system cartridge, for example, to avoid accidental opening of the valve element. This fixation can be brought about, for example, by press-fitting, shape conformity, or interference fit.

[0034] The protrusion may be pullable by the dispensing outlet to effect sliding of the valve element. Such a design is simple to manufacture and simple in use.

[0035] At least one of the one or more inlet passages can be configured to draw in at least a portion of the valve element. Specifically, the protrusion may be pullable by at least one of the one or more inlet passages. Such a design is simple to manufacture and simple in use.

[0036] The component(s) may comprise one or more arms. Such arms can be used, in the simplest possible way, to clamp the protrusion in the closed position during the use of the dispensing system. For example, the arm(s) may comprise a convex surface facing the protrusion, which is shaped complementary to the outer shape of the protrusion for cooperation. The protrusion may have an outer shape that is at least partially cylindrical.

[0037] One or more inlet passages may each be configured such that one or more wings engage between the valve element and the said component, in particular such that each wing engages between each arm and the valve element. Providing wings and arms that cooperate with each other at the interface enables the clamping of the dispensing outlet to the cartridge outlet so that the cartridge outlet is securely held at the cartridge outlet during the dispensing process.

[0038] Each said wing may comprise one or more chamfered surfaces. Such chamfered surfaces assist in guiding the dispensing outlet to the cartridge outlet, so to speak, by pulling these two components together.

[0039] The one or more protrusions may extend parallel to the direction of sliding of the valve element. In this way, the protrusions can assist in guiding the valve element between the open and closed positions.

[0040] The one or more protrusions may have a part cylindrical shape. By using a curved surface, the guidance of the valve element at the cartridge outlet can be increased.

[0041] The cartridge outlet may comprise one or more conduits. Providing such conduits can assist in connecting the dispensing outlet to the cartridge outlet and / or in connecting the valve element at the interface.

[0042] One of the protrusions is received in the one or more conduits. In this way, the valve element can be beneficially guided at the cartridge outlet.

[0043] One of the one or more inlet passages is movable relative to the component. For example, the inlet passage can be locked in position during use of the dispensing system when it is moved relative to the component to an assembly position or the like.

[0044] Two components are provided at the cartridge outlet, and the two inlet passages are each provided movably relative to each of the components, for example, into and out of respective spaces formed in one of the components. Such components are simple to manufacture.

[0045] The valve element can comprise one or more recesses configured to receive at least a portion of the dispensing outlet. Such recesses can ensure the accurate placement of the dispensing outlet at the cartridge outlet. Also, the engagement between the recess and a portion inserted into the recess can assist in the displacement of the valve element between the open and closed positions and between the closed and open positions.

[0046] The dispensing system can further comprise a closure ring disposed at the dispensing outlet and having guide slots. Such a closure ring is easy for the user of the dispensing system to operate to rotate the closure ring in order to lock and unlock the dispensing outlet to and from the cartridge and to simultaneously guide the valve element between the open and closed positions.

[0047] The protrusion can be forcedly guided in the guide slots, and in particular, the rotation of the closure ring can be converted into an axial sliding movement of the valve element via the protrusion and the guide slots. Such a change of rotational movement to sliding movement using the guide slots ensures that sufficient force for opening and closing the valve element can be provided.

[0048] The guide slot can be integrally formed in the closed loop. Such a design is simple to manufacture and simple in use.

[0049] The guide slot can have a kidney shaped extent. Such a design is simple to manufacture and simple in use.

[0050] The closed loop may include an interfering element disposed on the inner surface of the closed loop. Such an interfering element can be used to prevent the rotation of the closed loop from the open position to the closed position, for example, when the dispensing outlet is not attached to the cartridge.

[0051] The interface surface may include a rocking element pivotable about a pivot axis. This rocking element can pivot about the pivot axis, that is, it can rock.

[0052] The rocking element includes a first wing portion and a second wing portion. Such wing portions can be configured to cooperate with a further portion of the interface surface in different usage states of the dispensing system.

[0053] Preferably, the rocking element can be engaged with the closed loop and disengaged from the engagement with the closed loop, for example, to prevent the movement of the closed loop when the dispensing outlet is not connected to the cartridge by an interface surface or the like.

[0054] For this purpose, for example, the second wing portion can be engaged with the closed loop and disengaged from the engagement with the closed loop only when the dispensing outlet is inserted into the interface surface.

[0055] The rocking element can be engaged with the interfering element of the closed loop and disengaged from the engagement with the interfering element of the closed loop. For example, the second wing portion can be engaged with the interfering element and disengaged from the engagement with the interfering element.

[0056] The interface may comprise a frame protruding in the direction of the dispensing outlet, for example. Such a frame can be beneficially used to receive the dispenser of the dispensing outlet in order to form alignment means formed on the one hand by the shape inside the frame and on the other hand by the outer diameter of the dispenser, and the two respective shapes only allow the dispensing outlet to be inserted into the frame of the interface in only one orientation.

[0057] The rocking element can pivot between two arms of the frame. For example, when the dispenser is inserted into the interface, the first wing of the rocking element is adjacent to one of the arms of the frame.

[0058] In this connection, it should be noted that upon insertion into the interface, the dispenser can deflect a rocking element, such as the first wing of the rocking element, which pivots the rocking element to disengage it from an engagement with a closure ring, such as an obstruction element of the closure ring. For example, the second wing is pivoted so as to disengage from the engagement with the obstruction element.

[0059] The dispensing system may further comprise coded alignment means for ensuring the placement of the dispensing outlet at the cartridge outlet in only one orientation. In this way, the dispensing outlet can only be arranged in one way in the cartridge, ensuring reliable use of the dispensing system.

[0060] The inlet passage, the through hole, and the cartridge outlet passage may not be arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis. Such an arrangement can provide a particular type of coded alignment means. Further types of coded alignment means may be provided through a particular design and shape of the dispenser, the wings, and / or the arms, and the spaces formed therebetween.

[0061] The cartridge is a two-component cartridge having first and second cartridge chambers, and the respective materials stored in one of each of the first and second cartridge chambers contact only with the other of the respective materials at the dispensing outlet. In this way, cross-contamination at the cartridge outlet can be prevented.

[0062] According to a further aspect, the present invention further relates to a dispensing outlet, in particular configured for use in a dispensing system according to the present teachings, i.e., the dispensing outlet can be designed by one or more of the specific embodiments disclosed herein, and the dispensing outlet includes an outlet, a mixing element disposed in a mixer housing having an outlet coaxially disposed along a longitudinal axis, and two inlet passages each having one or more wings. The dispensing outlet has the same advantages as considered in relation to the dispensing system.

[0063] The dispensing outlet may have further features as defined herein.

[0064] The dispensing outlet may include an IOR attached at its outlet. Such a dispensing outlet enables accurate placement of the dispensing outlet, for example, at the site of treatment such as a cavity in a dental patient.

[0065] The IOR has an inner surface having one or more inner surface ribs disposed thereon, and the outer housing may include one or more outer ribs disposed on the outside. In this way, the IOR can be positioned relative to the housing.

[0066] The one or more inner surface ribs and the one or more outer ribs may extend parallel to each other. In this way, the dispensing outlet becomes more user-friendly.

[0067] The one or more inner surface ribs may be configured to engage with the one or more outer ribs. In this way, the predetermined position of the IOR relative to the housing can be maintained during use of the dispensing outlet.

[0068] One or more inner surface ribs and the one or more outer ribs may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis. In this way, a dispensing outlet that is as compact as possible can be formed.

[0069] The IOR may include an inlet. The inlet may include one or more circumferentially extending ribs, preferably two circumferentially extending ribs. In this way, the attachment of the IOR to the housing can be facilitated.

[0070] The inlet may include one or more openings, preferably two openings. In such a way, a snap connection that is easier to operate in the assembly of the dispensing outlet can be formed.

[0071] Each one of the one or more circumferentially extending ribs is disposed in each one of the one or more openings. In this way, the size of the structure of the dispensing outlet can be minimized.

[0072] Each one of the one or more openings may be disposed downstream of the one or more circumferentially extending ribs when viewed from the inlet opening of the inlet of the IOR. In this way, the size of the structure of the dispensing outlet can be minimized.

[0073] The inner surface having one or more inner surface ribs may be disposed at the inlet. In this way, the size of the structure of the dispensing outlet can be minimized.

[0074] The IOR is removably attached to the outer housing, for example, via one or more snap connections, preferably via two snap connections. In this way, a connection that is easy to manufacture and enables both rotation of the IOR with respect to the housing and axial fixation of the IOR with respect to the housing is used.

[0075] The outer housing may include a circumferentially extending lip. In this way, a dispensing outlet that enables a snap connection and is as compact as possible can be formed.

[0076] A static mixer may comprise a positioning grid that cooperates with two or more positioning grooves arranged within a connector of the static mixer. In this way, alignment between the connector and components of the static mixer can be ensured.

[0077] The housing of the static mixer may comprise an energy carrier, preferably arranged adjacent to the positioning grid. In this way, the assembly of the dispensing outlet can be simplified.

[0078] The inlet manifold of the static mixer comprises a shelf portion. In this way, the assembly of the dispensing outlet can be simplified.

[0079] The inlet manifold may be permanently attached to the housing. In this way, even for components of filigree construction, a design that is as compact as possible can be ensured.

[0080] The inlet manifold can be permanently attached to the housing via the energy carrier and the shelf portion. In this way, the assembly of the dispensing outlet can be simplified.

[0081] The IOR may comprise an inlet container having a body to which a cannula is attached. By way of example, the cannula can be attached to the body at an angle selected in the range of 15 to 75° with respect to the longitudinal axis, and in particular at an angle selected in the range of 25 to 65° with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0082] By way of example, the cannula can have a passage with an inner diameter selected in the range of 0.1 to 2 mm. In contrast, the housing of the mixing element arranged at the dispensing outlet can have an inner diameter selected in the range of 1 to 12 mm.

[0083] The length of the cannula can be selected in the range of 5 to 100 mm, and in particular in the range of 8 to 60 mm.

[0084] At each of the dispensing outlets, the IOR may further comprise a plate connected to the body of the inlet vessel. Such a plate enables improved gripping of the dispensing outlet.

[0085] The plate may be connected to the body by one or more webs of material. By using such a connection, material can be saved and the plate can be formed in a simple manner.

[0086] At each of the dispensing outlets, the IOR may further comprise a plate connected to the body of the inlet vessel via one or more webs at a part of the inlet vessel where the cannula is attached to the body. Such a plate enables improved gripping of the dispensing outlet in its use.

[0087] The plate may have a flat outer surface. Such a flat outer surface enables improved gripping of the plate in the use of the dispensing outlet.

[0088] According to a further aspect, the invention further relates to a cartridge, in particular to a cartridge configured for use in a dispensing system according to the present teachings, i.e., the cartridge can be designed according to one or more of the specific embodiments disclosed herein, the cartridge comprises a cartridge outlet, and the cartridge outlet comprises a valve element disposed slidably at the cartridge outlet and disposed between the base of the cartridge outlet and an arm projecting inwardly from the outer wall of the cartridge. The cartridge has the same advantages as those considered in connection with the dispensing system.

[0089] Further embodiments of the invention are described in the following description of the figures. The invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings as shown, using embodiments.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0090]

Fig. 1a-1c

Fig. 2a-2b

Fig. 3a-3c

Fig. 4a-4b

Fig. 5a-5d

Fig. 6a-6c

Fig. 7a-7b

Fig. 8a-8h

Fig. 9a-9f

Fig. 10a-10b

Fig. 11a-11b

Fig. 12a-12e

Fig. 13a-13b

Fig. 14a-14c

Fig. 15a-15c

Fig. 16a-16d

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0091] FIG. 1a shows a dispensing system 10 comprising a dispensing outlet 12 connected to a cartridge outlet 14 of a cartridge 48. The dispensing outlet 12 is connected to the cartridge outlet 14 via an interface surface 18, for example with reference to FIG. 2a.

[0092] The dispensing outlet 12 comprises a mixer housing 22 having an outlet 28 through which one or more materials M stored in the cartridge 46 can be dispensed. To cover the cartridge outlet 14, the dispensing outlet 12 comprises a cover disc 32 connected to an annular portion 34. The annular portion 34 partially covers the cartridge outlet 14. As indicated in FIG. 1b, the annular portion 34 covers three sides of the cartridge outlet 14.

[0093] At the end adjacent to the outlet 26, the mixer housing 22 comprises a connector 26 having a snap - fit component 30 or the like, to which a tip of a particular kind can be connected through the dispensing outlet. By way of example, an Intra Oral Rotation (IOR) 64, as indicated in FIGS. 5, 13, and 14, etc., can be connected to the outlet 28 of the dispensing outlet 12.

[0094] The end of the cartridge 48 remote from the cartridge outlet 14 comprises two gripping elements 36 by which the cartridge 46 can be held during use of the dispensing system 10. As indicated in FIG. 1b, a plunger 38 is movably disposed in the cartridge 46 to engage a piston (not shown) to discharge the material M from the cartridge 46. During use of the dispensing system 100, the user can grip the wings with the fingers of his hand and exert pressure with his thumb on the plunger 38 to expel the material M stored in the cartridge 46 from the cartridge 46.

[0095] When the dispensing outlet 12 is placed on the cartridge 46, the dispensing outlet 12 is moved along the longitudinal axis A of the dispensing outlet 12 towards the cartridge outlet 14. When the dispensing outlet 12 abuts the cartridge outlet 14, the cartridge outlet 14 is moved in a direction T transverse to the longitudinal axis A, as indicated by the arrows provided on the dispensing outlet 12 and the cartridge 46, as seen in FIG. 1c, etc. In this connection, it should be noted that the longitudinal axis A of the dispensing outlet 12 is coaxial with the outlet 28 of the dispensing outlet 12.

[0096] Figures 2a and 2b show cross-sectional views of the dispensing system of FIG. 1. The mixing element 20 is disposed in the mixer housing 22. This mixing element 22 can be of any shape. By way of example, a helical mixing structure can be used, and similarly, a mixing structure known as a T-shaped mixing structure or a quadro mixing structure can be used as the structure of the mixing element 20. Such mixing elements are well known in the art and are used to thoroughly mix the multi-component material M.

[0097] FIG. 2a shows the dispensing outlet 12 axially slid relative to the cartridge outlet 14 along the longitudinal axis A before being slid transversely relative to the cartridge outlet.

[0098] FIG. 2b shows the assembled dispensing system 10 when the dispensing outlet 12 has also been moved transversely relative to the dispensing outlet 12.

[0099] The cartridge 46 has two cartridge chambers 42 for storing the respective materials M of the two-component material M, such as a hardener and a corresponding binder.

[0100] Each material M can be dispensed from the respective cartridge chamber 42 through the cartridge outlet passage 44.

[0101] In the drawing of FIG. 2a, the cartridge outlet passage 44 is closed because the valve element 16 covers the cartridge outlet passage 44. The movement of the dispensing outlet 12 causes a transverse sliding movement of the valve element 16 relative to the cartridge outlet passage 44 in the transverse direction to align the through-hole 40 of the valve element 16 with the cartridge outlet passage 44 to open the cartridge outlet passage 44.

[0102] In this regard, it should be noted that the through hole 40 is configured to receive a part of the inlet passage 24 of the dispensing outlet 12 in a state where at least one of the one or more inlet passages 24 is configured to draw the valve element 16 when the dispensing outlet 12 is connected to the cartridge outlet 14.

[0103] The inlet passage 24 is configured to guide each material M stored in each cartridge chamber 42 from the cartridge 46 to the mixing element 20. The inlet passage 24 is aligned with the cartridge outlet passage 44 in the open position of the valve element 16 to enable the guiding of the material M.

[0104] In this method, each material M stored in each of the first and second cartridge chambers 42 only comes into contact with the other of the respective materials M at the dispensing outlet 12 when the valve element is in the open position, resulting in the avoidance of cross-contamination at the cartridge outlet 14.

[0105] Figures 3a - 3c show various views of a second type of dispensing system 10 similar to that shown above in relation to Figures 1 and 2.

[0106] In contrast to the design shown in Figures 1 and 2, the design shown in Figure 3 only has an annular portion 34 on one side of the dispensing outlet 12 that covers one side of the cartridge outlet 14. The valve element 16, the interface surface 18, the connector 26 such as the mixing element, and the housing 22 can be formed identically to each other.

[0107] In this regard, it should be noted that the annular portion 34 can cover between 5% and 90% of the outer surface of the cartridge outlet 14, and in particular, can cover between 10% and 75% of the outer surface of the cartridge outlet 14. In other words, it should be noted that the annular portion 34 does not surround the entire outer surface of the cartridge outlet 14.

[0108] Figures 4a and 4b show further views of the dispensing system 10 of FIG. 3, emphasizing the transverse movement of the dispensing outlet 12 in the direction T transverse to the longitudinal axis A, after the placement of the dispensing outlet 12 at the cartridge outlet 14.

[0109] Figures 5a - 5d show various views of a third type of dispensing system 10 similar to that shown above in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2. The differences in the design are that the cartridge 46 is not rectangular but cylindrical, and the dispensing outlet 12 comprises only the cover disc 32 and does not comprise the annular portion 34.

[0110] Also indicated is a valve element 16 that, like the valve elements of all types of dispensing systems 10 shown herein, is not removable from the interface surface 18 during normal use of the dispensing system. Further, like all other valve elements shown herein, the valve element 16 can only slide along one axis relative to the interface surface 18 in the direction T transverse to the longitudinal axis A.

[0111] As indicated in FIG. 4a etc., a part of one of the dispensing outlets 12 is insertable into the valve element 16, i.e., the inlet passage 24 is formed together in a dispenser 80 having a wing portion 48.

[0112] When the dispensing outlet 12 is slid transversely relative to the cartridge outlet 14, the dispenser 80 is clamped between the base 72 of the cartridge outlet 14 and a component having an arm portion 50 of the cartridge outlet 14 to avoid the axial movement of the dispensing outlet 12 relative to the cartridge outlet 14 in the open position of the valve element 16.

[0113] FIG. 5b shows a perspective view of the third type of dispensing system 10 of FIG. 5a, FIG. 5c shows the dispensing system with the valve element 16 in the closed position, i.e., before being slid transversely, and FIG. 5d shows the dispensing system 10 when the dispensing outlet 12 has been slid transversely to the open position of the valve element 16.

[0114] As indicated in FIGS. 6a - 6c, the dispensing valve element 16 is received in one or more conduits 54 at the cartridge outlet 14. These conduits 54 are shaped complementary to the valve element 16 to facilitate the sliding movement of the valve element 16 relative to the cartridge outlet 14.

[0115] As indicated, the valve element 16 includes a protrusion 52 that generally projects in the direction of the longitudinal axis A from the valve element 16.

[0116] The protrusion 52 can be held at a position beside one component 50 of the cartridge 46 at the cartridge outlet 14 as indicated in FIG. 6a, i.e., at a position between the oppositely disposed arms 50 that project from the cartridge wall 74 to the cartridge outlet 14. The arms 50 have open ends 84 that are convexly curved to receive the cylindrically shaped protrusion 52 in the closed position of the valve element 16.

[0117] The protrusion 52 can be drawn in by the dispensing outlet 12 to effect the sliding of the valve element 16. A part of the dispensing outlet 12 configured to draw in the protrusion 52 is part of an inlet passage 24 that is similarly cylindrically shaped and has a part that can be clamped between the convex open ends 84 of the oppositely disposed arms 50 in the open position of the valve element 16. Thus, each inlet passage 24 can move relative to the component 50.

[0118] The valve element includes a projection 56 on the side opposite the side having the protrusion 52. The projection 56 extends parallel to the direction of sliding of the valve element 16. The projection 56 has a partially cylindrical shape.

[0119] Each one of the projections 54 is received in one of the one or more conduits 54. The conduits 54 are shaped complementary to the projections such that in this way, a seal between the valve element 16 and the cartridge outlet 14 is also ensured in the closed position of the valve element 16.

[0120] As indicated, for example, in FIG. 6a, two components 50 are provided at the cartridge outlet 14, and two inlet passages 24 are each movably provided for one of each of the components 50.

[0121] In the closed position of the valve element 16, the curved surface of the arm acts as a hook that catches the protrusion 52 between the arms. While the protrusion 52 is clamped between the arms 50, the first web 58 is clamped between the base of the cartridge outlet 14 and the arm 50, causing the protrusion 56 to be in a sealed engagement with the guide passage 54. This interface, so to speak, pushes the valve element 16 towards the cartridge outlet to maintain the closed position.

[0122] In the open position, the valve element 16 slides transversely with respect to the cartridge outlet 14 and is drawn into the inlet passage 24 of the dispensing outlet 14 by the "hook" formed by the curved surface of the open end 84 of the arm 50 to release the protrusion 52 from the "hook". For this reason, the cylindrical part of the inlet passage 24 is positioned between the open ends 84 of the arms 50 and is similarly hooked between those open ends 84 to ensure the accurate positioning of the valve element 16 at the cartridge outlet 14.

[0123] FIGS. 7a and 7b show further cross-sectional views of the second type of dispensing system 10. As indicated, each inlet passage 24 comprises a wing 48 configured to engage between the valve element 16 and the said arm 50. In this connection, it should be noted that each wing 48 can engage between each arm 50 and the valve element 16.

[0124] In this connection, it should be noted that such wings 48 and arms 50 can be provided in all types of dispensing systems 10 shown herein.

[0125] To assist in the introduction of the respective wing portions 48 that engage each wing portion 48 under the respective arm portions, the wing portions 48 may comprise one or more chamfered surfaces 78. These are provided such that while the wing portion is guided under the arm portion, axial pushing of the dispensing outlet 12 towards the cartridge outlet 14 can be achieved.

[0126] Apart from FIG. 8c, FIGS. 8a - 8h show views of the valve element 16. As indicated, the valve element 16 comprises an elongated plate 76 with a through - hole 40.

[0127] The valve element 16 comprises two recesses 80 arranged parallel to a protrusion 52 configured to receive respective wing portions associated with one of the inlet passages 24.

[0128] The positions of these recesses 80 and the position of the through - hole 40 provide coded alignment means that ensure the exact placement of the dispensing outlet 12 at the cartridge outlet 14 in only one orientation. This is for the shape and positioning of each part.

[0129] As indicated in FIGS. 8a and 8c, the through - hole 40 and the cartridge outlet passage 44 are not arranged mirror - symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis A.

[0130] As indicated in FIGS. 8b, 8d, 8f, and 8h, the plate - shaped valve element 16 has a protrusion 46 arranged on the side of the valve element 16 opposite the side having the protrusion, with the through - hole 40 extending between those sides.

[0131] FIGS. 9a - 9f show views of the dispensing outlet of the second type of dispensing system 10. The inlet passage 24 of the dispensing outlet 12 is likewise not arranged mirror - symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis A. To ensure the exact positioning of the inlet passage relative to the cartridge outlet passage 44 in the open position of the valve element, the inlet passage 24 is positioned complementarily to the through - hole 40 and the cartridge outlet passage 44.

[0132] As indicated in the various figures, the wing portion 48 projects from the inlet passage 24 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A.

[0133] Figures 10a and 10b, and Figures 11a and 11b show views of a cartridge of the second type of dispensing system 10. This is configured for use at the cartridge outlet as indicated in Figure 9 in association with the valve element 16 shown in Figure 8.

[0134] The cartridge 46 includes a cartridge outlet 14 that allows the valve element 16 to be slidably disposed. The valve element 16 can be disposed between the base 72 of the cartridge outlet 14 and an arm 50 that projects inwardly from the outer wall 74 of the cartridge 46.

[0135] Figures 12a - 12e show various views of the fourth type of dispensing system 10. The dispensing system 10 further includes a closure ring 66 disposed at the dispensing outlet 12. The views shown in Figures 12a - 12c are similar to those shown in association with the third type of dispensing system 10 where the dispenser 82 is clampable between the arm 50 and the base 72 of the valve element 16.

[0136] Figure 12d shows the dispensing outlet 14 in the open position of the valve element 16 when the closure ring 66 is rotated.

[0137] Figure 12e shows the closure ring 66 with an integrally formed guide slot 68. A web 70 projects from the inner surface of the closure ring 66 to hold the guide slot 68 in place.

[0138] The protrusion 52 is forcibly guided into the guide slot 68. During use of the fourth type of dispensing system 10, rotation of the closure ring 66 is converted via the protrusion 52 and the guide slot 68 into an axial sliding movement of the valve element 16 to shift the valve element 16 from the closed position to the open position and from the open position to the closed position.

[0139] To effect the opening and closing movement of the valve element 16, the guide slot 68 has a kidney-shaped spread for guiding the projection 16 of the valve element 16 in a direction T transverse to the longitudinal axis A.

[0140] Figures 13a and 13b show a further type of dispensing outlet 12. Figure 13a shows a perspective view of the dispensing outlet 12 and Figure 13b shows a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line A:A of Figure 13a.

[0141] The dispensing outlet 12 is configured for use in a dispensing system 10 as previously shown. The dispensing outlet 12 comprises a mixing element 20 disposed in the housing 22 and an IOR 64. The dispensing outlet 12 can be attached to the cartridge via one of the interface surfaces 18 previously described in connection with any type of dispensing system 10 (see, for example, Figure 5b).

[0142] The IOR 64 comprises an outlet 63 through which the material is dispensed and the outlet 63 is at the first end 67 of the cannula 65 of the intraoral rotatable tip (IOR) 64. The first end 67 is disposed opposite the second end 69 of the cannula 65 and the cannula 65 is connected to the inlet container 138 of the IOR 64 at the second end 69.

[0143] The cannula 65 comprises a passage 134 for guiding the material dispensed from the cartridge 46 to the IOR 64 via the dispensing outlet 12 through the outlet 63 of the IOR 64.

[0144] It should be noted that other types of connection means different from those described herein can also be used.

[0145] The IOR 64 is attached to the outer side 112 of the housing 22 such that it can rotate relative to the mixing element 20 but cannot be axially moved, i.e., it cannot be moved along the longitudinal axis A but can be rotated about the longitudinal axis A.

[0146] The IOR64 includes an inlet 118 formed in a main body 140 of an inlet container 138 disposed at an end 19 of a dispensing element 12 such as a static mixer or a dynamic mixer. The end 19 of the dispensing outlet 12 is inserted into the inlet 118 of the inlet container 138 and snap-fastened in place there via two snap connections 30.

[0147] The end 19 of the outer side 112 of the housing 22 includes a circumferentially extending lip 122. In the example shown in FIG. 13b, the lip extends completely around the outer side 112 of the housing 22. However, it should be noted that the lip 122 may include two or more partial lips (not shown). The function of the lip 122 is to provide part of a snap connection 120 through which the IOR64 is attached to the housing 22. The attachment is selected such that the IOR64 cannot be removed from the housing 22 during its normal use.

[0148] FIGS. 14a-14c show views of the intraoral rotating tip 64 of FIGS. 13a and 13b. In FIG. 14a, the IOR64 is attached to the dispensing outlet 12. The IOR64 includes an inlet container 138 for attachment of a cannula 65 to the dispensing outlet 12.

[0149] The end 19 of the outer side 112 of the housing 22 is inserted into the inlet 118.

[0150] The inlet 118 further includes two openings 124. These openings 124 form part of the snap connection 30. In this regard, it should be noted that the snap connection can also be formed without these openings 124.

[0151] When viewed from the inlet opening 126 of the inlet 118, the inlet 118 includes two circumferentially extending ribs 128 respectively disposed in one of the openings 124, and the openings 124 are disposed downstream of the respective circumferentially extending ribs 128 when viewed from the inlet opening 126.

[0152] When the IOR64 is snap - fastened in place at the dispensing outlet 12 via the inlet container 138, the two ribs 128 engage behind the circumferential lip 122. Thereby, the IOR64 is axially fixed to the dispensing outlet 12.

[0153] The inlet 118 of the IOR64 comprises an inner surface 129 having a plurality of inner surface ribs 130 arranged as shown in Figure 6b. The inner surface ribs 130 extend parallel to each other and parallel to the longitudinal axis A.

[0154] As indicated in Figure 14c, the dispensing outlet 12 has an outlet 28 that is aligned with the passage 134 (see Figure 14a) of the IOR64 in such a state that the material to be dispensed exits the outlet 114 and then exits the passage 134.

[0155] As further indicated in Figure 14c, the outer side 112 of the housing 22 comprises one or more outer ribs 132 arranged on the outer side 112. The outer ribs 132 extend parallel to each other and parallel to the longitudinal axis A.

[0156] The inner surface ribs 130 are configured to engage with the outer ribs 132. In this way, the IOR64 can be rotated around the longitudinal axis A and the dispensing outlet 12. The IOR64 can be positioned relative to the dispensing outlet 12 depending on the engagement position.

[0157] In this way, the IOR64 at the dispensing outlet 12 can be positioned, for example, in the teeth of the patient being treated, and the attached cartridge can be rotated by a dental practitioner or the like so that the material is dispensed in a convenient manner at a desired angle.

[0158] Figures 15a - 15c show a further type of IOR64 connected to the dispensing outlet 12 as taught in connection with Figure 1. Essentially, the IOR can be used in connection with each of the dispensing outlets 12 as taught herein.

[0159] The plate 142 is connected to the main body 140 of the inlet container 138 via a web in a part of the inlet container 138 where the cannula 65 is attached to the main body 140.

[0160] The plate 142 has a flat outer surface 146 that acts as an aid for finger positioning during the dispensing process so that the user can safely hold the IOR 64 during dispensing, such as in the patient's teeth.

[0161] The plate 142 is connected to the main body by one or more webs 144 of the material, and the example here has three such webs 144. In this regard, it should be noted that between two and six webs 144 can be provided.

[0162] Figures 16a - 16c show a further type of dispensing system 10. This dispensing system 10 is similar to the design shown in relation to Figure 12.

[0163] The difference is provided in that the closure ring 66 comprises an interference element 148 arranged on the inner surface 150 of the closure ring 66.

[0164] The boundary surface 18 is pivotable about a pivot axis 154 and further comprises a rocking element 152 having a first wing portion 156 and a second wing portion 158.

[0165] The rocking element 152 can be engaged with the closure ring 66 and disengaged from the engagement with the closure ring 66 by a pivotal movement about the pivot axis 154, that is, the second wing portion 158 can be engaged with the closure ring 66 and disengaged from the engagement with the closure ring 66. Thereby, the rocking element 152 can be engaged with the interference element 148 of the closure ring 66 and disengaged from the engagement with the interference element 148 of the closure ring 66.

[0166] The interface surface 18 further comprises a frame 160 protruding in the direction of the dispensing outlet 12. The frame may be configured to receive the dispenser 80 of the dispensing outlet 12. The internal shape of the frame 160 is adapted to the external shape of the dispenser 80, and the two respective shapes allow the dispensing outlet to be inserted into the frame of the interface surface in only one orientation, thereby forming encoded alignment means.

[0167] The rocking element 152 is configured to pivot between two arms 162 of the frame 160. For example, when the dispenser 80 is inserted into the interface surface 18, the first wing 156 and the second wing 158 of the rocking element 152 are respectively adjacent to one of the arms 162 of the frame 160.

[0168] In this connection, it should be noted that in the insertion of the dispenser 80 and the inlet passage 24 into the interface surface 18, a part of the dispenser 80 deflects the rocking element 152, such as the first wing 156 of the rocking element 152, thereby pivoting the rocking element 152 to release the engagement with the closing ring 66. For example, in such a way that the closing ring 66 can be rotated to fix the dispensing outlet to the cartridge 46 and open the valve element 16, the second wing 156 is pivoted to release the engagement with the interfering element 148, so that the interfering element 148 of the closing ring 66 is no longer engaged by the second wing 158.

[0169] Accordingly, the cartridge 46 of the plurality of components can be filled with a material M selected from the group of members consisting of local pharmaceuticals, medical liquids, wound treatment liquids, cosmetic and / or skin care preparations, dental liquids, veterinary liquids, adhesive liquids, disinfectant liquids, protective liquids, paints, and combinations thereof.

[0170] Therefore, such a material M, and thus the dispensing system 10, can be conveniently used in the treatment of target areas in the nose (e.g., antihistamine cream, etc.), ears, teeth (e.g., implant or mold for application to the cheek (e.g., aphtha, gum treatment, stomatitis, etc.)), eyes (e.g., accurate application of drugs to the eyelids (e.g., chalazion, infection, anti - inflammation, antibiotics, etc.)), lips (e.g., herpes, etc.), mouth, skin (e.g., antifungal, darkening, acne, boil, psoriasis, skin cancer treatment, tattoo removal agent, wound healing, scar treatment, stain removal, itch relief application, etc.), and other dermatological uses (e.g., skin, nails (e.g., antifungal use, or strengthening formulation, etc.), or cytological uses, etc.).

[0171] Alternatively, the material M, and thus the dispensing system 10, can be used not only in industrial fields for the production of products, such as in the construction industry, automotive industry, aircraft industry, and in the energy field for wind turbines, etc., but also in industrial fields for the repair and maintenance of existing products. The dispensing system 10 can be used, for example, for the dispensing of construction materials, sealants, bonding materials, adhesives, paints, coating agents, and / or protective coating agents.

Explanation of Reference Signs

[0172] 10 Dispensing system 12 Dispensing outlet 14 Cartridge outlet 16 Valve element 18 Interface 19 End 20 Mixing element 22 Mixer housing 24 Inlet passage 26 Connector 28 Outlet of reference sign 12 30 Snap fastener 32 Cover disc 34 Ring portion 36 Gripping element 38 Plunger 40 Through - hole 42 Cartridge chamber 44 Cartridge outlet passage 46 Cartridge 48 Wing 50 Arm 52 Protrusion 54 Guide Path 56 Projection 58 First Web 60 Second Web 62 Wall 63 Outlet 64 Intraoral Rotating Tip (IOR) 65 Cannula 66 Closure Ring 67 First End 68 Guide Slot 69 Second End 70 Web 72 Base 74 Outer Wall 76 Plate 78 Dispenser 80 Recess 82 Dispenser 84 Open End 112 Outer 118 Inlet 120 Snap-Fit Connection 122 Lip 124 Opening 126 Inlet Opening 128 Circumferential Rib 129 Inner Surface 130 Inner Surface Rib 132 Outer Rib 134 Passage 136 End of IOR 138 Inlet Container 140 Body of Reference Numeral 138 142 Plate 144 Web Connecting Reference Numeral 140 to Reference Numeral 142 146 Flat Surface 148 Interference Element to Reference Numeral 66 150 Inner Surface of Reference Numeral 66 152 Rocking Portion 154 Pivot Axis 156 First Wing 158 Second Wing 160 Frame of Reference Numeral 80 The arm portion of the symbol 160 A longitudinal axis M material T A direction transverse to the symbol A

Claims

1. A dispensing system (10) comprising: a cartridge (46) having a dispensing outlet (12), a valve element (16), and the cartridge (46) having the cartridge outlet (14) with a longitudinal axis (A) extending along the cartridge outlet (14), wherein the valve element (16) is slidably disposed in a direction (T) transverse to the longitudinal axis (A) at an interface (18) between the cartridge outlet (14) and the dispensing outlet (12), and is configured to open and close the cartridge outlet (14) to dispense material from the cartridge outlet (14), and wherein a portion of the dispensing outlet (12) is insertable into the interface (18).

2. 2. The dispensing outlet of claim 1, wherein the portion of the dispensing outlet (12) is insertable into the interface (18) to slide the valve element (16) in a direction (T) transverse to the longitudinal axis (A).

3. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, wherein the valve element (16) is not removable from the interface (18).

4. 2. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, wherein the valve element (16) is only capable of sliding along one axis relative to the interface (18).

5. 2. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, wherein at least one portion (24; 48) of the dispensing outlet (12) is insertable into a valve element (16).

6. The dispensing system (10) of claim 5, wherein the at least one portion comprises one or more inlet passages (24) and / or wings (48).

7. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, wherein the dispensing outlet (12) comprises a cover disc (32) that covers the interface (18).

8. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, wherein the dispensing outlet (12) further comprises a collar (34).

9. The dispensing system (10) of claim 8, wherein the collar (34) at least partially surrounds the interface (18) and the cartridge outlet (14).

10. The dispensing system (10) of claim 8, wherein the annulus (34) at least partially surrounds the interface (18) and is at least partially disposed within the cartridge outlet (14).

11. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, wherein the valve element (16) comprises an elongated plate (76) having one or more through holes (40).

12. The dispensing system (10) of claim 11, wherein the one or more through-holes (40) align with the cartridge outlet (14) to open the cartridge outlet (14) for dispensing.

13. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, wherein the cartridge outlet (14) comprises one or more cartridge outlet passages (44).

14. 12. The dispensing system (10) of claim 11, wherein the valve element (16) is slidably arranged to align the one or more through holes (40) with the one or more cartridge outlet passages (44) to open the cartridge outlet (14) for dispensing, and to displace the one or more through holes (40) from the one or more cartridge outlet passages (44) to close the cartridge outlet (14).

15. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, wherein the valve element (16) comprises a protrusion (52) extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (A).

16. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, wherein the valve element (16) comprises one or more protrusions (56) extending along the longitudinal axis (A) toward the cartridge (46).

17. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, wherein the valve element (16) is received in one or more conduits (54) in the cartridge outlet (14).

18. The dispensing system (10) of claim 15, wherein the protrusion (52) can be held in one position by a component (50) of the cartridge (46) at the cartridge outlet (14).

19. 16. The dispensing system (10) of claim 15, wherein the protrusion (52) is retractable by the dispensing outlet (12) to provide sliding movement of the valve element (16).

20. 7. The dispensing system (10) of claim 6, wherein at least one of the one or more inlet passages (24) is configured to retract the valve element (16), and in particular, a protrusion (52) can be retracted by at least one of the one or more inlet passages (24).

21. The dispensing system (10) of claim 18, wherein the component comprises one or more arms (50).

22. 7. The dispensing system (10) of claim 6, wherein the one or more inlet passages (24) each include one or more wings (48) configured to engage between the valve element (16) and a component (50), and in particular, each wing (48) engages between a respective arm (50) and the valve element (16).

23. 23. The dispensing system (10) of claim 22, wherein each of the wings (48) comprises one or more chamfered surfaces (78).

24. 20. The dispensing system (10) of claim 18, wherein one or more protrusions (56) extend parallel to a direction of sliding movement of the valve element (16).

25. The dispensing system (10) of claim 18, wherein the one or more protrusions (56) have a partial cylindrical shape.

26. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, wherein the cartridge outlet (14) comprises one or more conduits (54).

27. 27. The dispensing system (10) of claim 26, wherein one of the protrusions is received in the one or more channels (54).

28. The dispensing system (10) of claim 6, wherein one of the one or more inlet passages (24) is movable relative to the component (50).

29. 7. The dispensing system (10) of claim 6, wherein two components (50) are provided at the cartridge outlet (14), and two inlet passages (24) are provided, each movable into and out of a respective one of the components (50).

30. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, wherein the valve element (16) comprises one or more recesses (80) configured to receive at least a portion of the dispensing outlet (12).

31. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, further comprising a closed loop (66) disposed in the dispensing outlet (12), the closed loop (66) comprising a guide slot (68).

32. A dispensing system (10) as described in claim 31, wherein the protrusion (52) is forcibly guided in the guide slot (68), and in particular, rotation of the closing ring (66) is converted into axial sliding movement of the valve element (16) via the protrusion (52) and the guide slot (68).

33. 32. The dispensing system (10) of claim 31, wherein the guide slot (68) is integrally formed in the closed loop (66).

34. 32. The dispensing system (10) of claim 31, wherein the guide slot (68) has a kidney-shaped extension.

35. 32. The dispensing system (10) of claim 31, wherein the closed loop (66) comprises an obstruction element (148) disposed on an inner surface (150) of the closed loop (66).

36. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, wherein the interface (18) comprises a rocking element (152) pivotable about a pivot axis (154).

37. 37. The dispensing system (10) of claim 36, wherein the rocking element (152) comprises first and second wings (156, 158).

38. 37. The dispensing system (10) of claim 36, wherein the rocking element (152) is capable of engaging with and disengaging from the closure loop (66).

39. 40. The dispensing system (10) of claim 38, wherein a second wing (158) is operable to engage and disengage from the closure loop (66).

40. 39. The dispensing system of claim 38, wherein the rocking element (152) can be engaged with and disengaged from the obstructing element (148) of the closed loop (66).

41. The dispensing system of claim 1 , wherein the interface comprises a frame (160).

42. 42. The dispensing system of claim 41, wherein the rocking element (152) pivots between two arms (162) of the frame (160).

43. 10. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, further comprising coded alignment means that ensures placement of the dispensing outlet (12) on the cartridge outlet (14) in only one orientation.

44. 2. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, wherein the cartridge (46) is a two-component cartridge (46) having first and second cartridge chambers (42), and each material (M) stored in one of the first and second cartridge chambers (42) contacts only the other of the materials (M) at the dispensing outlet (12).

45. The dispensing system (10) of claim 1, wherein the inlet passage (24), the through-hole (40), and the cartridge outlet passage (44) are not arranged in mirror symmetry with respect to the longitudinal axis (A).

46. In particular, a cartridge (46) configured for use in the dispensing system (10) of claim 1, the cartridge (46) comprising a cartridge outlet (14) having a valve element (16) slidably disposed in the cartridge outlet (14) and disposed between a base (72) of the cartridge outlet and an arm (50) projecting inward from an outer wall (74) of the cartridge (46).

47. A dispensing outlet (12) configured for use in particular with a dispensing system (10) as described in claim 1 and / or a cartridge (46) as described in claim 46, the dispensing outlet (12) comprising an outlet (28), a mixing element (20) arranged in a mixer housing (22) having the outlet (28) arranged coaxially along a longitudinal axis (A), and two inlet passages (24) each having one or more blades (48).

48. 48. The dispensing outlet (12) of claim 47, further comprising at least one of a mixing element (20) and an IOR (64), wherein the IOR (64) is mountable to the outside of a housing (22) of the mixing element (22) such that it can rotate relative to the dispensing outlet (12) but cannot move axially.

49. 49. The dispensing outlet of claim 48, wherein the IOR (64) comprises an inner surface (129) having one or more inner surface ribs (130) disposed on the IOR (64), and the outer housing comprises one or more outer ribs (132) disposed on the outer side (112).

50. 50. A dispensing outlet according to claim 49, wherein said one or more inner surface ribs (130) and said one or more outer ribs (132) extend parallel to one another.

51. 50. The dispensing outlet of claim 49, wherein the one or more inner surface ribs (130) are configured to mate with the one or more outer ribs (132).

52. 50. The dispensing outlet of claim 49, wherein said one or more inner surface ribs (130) and said one or more outer ribs (132) extend parallel to said longitudinal axis (A).

53. 49. The dispensing outlet of claim 48, wherein the IOR (64) comprises an inlet (118).

54. 54. A dispensing outlet according to claim 53, wherein said inlet (118) comprises one or more circumferentially extending ribs (128), preferably two circumferentially extending ribs.

55. 54. A dispensing outlet according to claim 53, wherein the inlet (118) comprises one or more openings (124), preferably two openings.

56. 55. The dispensing outlet of claim 54, wherein a respective one of the one or more circumferentially extending ribs (128) is disposed in a respective one of the one or more openings (124).

57. 57. The dispensing outlet of claim 56, wherein the respective one of the one or more openings (124) is positioned downstream of the one or more circumferentially extending ribs (128) when viewed from an inlet opening (126) of the inlet (118) of the IOR (64).

58. 50. The dispensing outlet of claim 49, wherein the inner surface having the one or more inner surface ribs (130) is disposed at the inlet (118).

59. 49. The dispensing outlet of claim 48, wherein the IOR (64) is non-removably attached to the outer housing (28).

60. 49. The dispensing outlet of claim 48, wherein the IOR (64) is non-removably attached to the outer housing (22) via one or more snap-on connections (120), preferably via two snap-on connections.

61. 49. A dispensing outlet according to claim 48, wherein the outer housing (112) comprises a circumferentially extending lip (122).

62. 49. The dispensing outlet according to claim 48, wherein the static mixer (12) comprises a positioning grid (136) that cooperates with two or more positioning grooves (138) arranged in the connector (16) of the static mixer (12).

63. 51. A dispensing outlet according to claim 50, wherein the housing (22) of the dispensing outlet (12) comprises an energy carrier (142), preferably arranged adjacent to a positioning grid (136).

64. 49. The dispensing outlet of claim 48, wherein the inlet manifold (146) of the dispensing outlet (12) comprises a shelf (144).

65. 64. The dispensing outlet of claim 63, wherein the inlet manifold (146) is permanently attached to the housing (22).

66. 66. The dispensing outlet of claim 65, wherein the inlet manifold (146) is permanently attached to the housing (22) via the energy carrier (142) and a shelf (144).

67. 49. The dispensing outlet of claim 48, wherein the IOR (64) comprises an inlet vessel (138) having a body (140) to which a cannula (65) is attached.

68. 68. The dispensing outlet of claim 67, further comprising a plate (142) connected to the body (140) of the inlet vessel (138).

69. 69. A dispensing outlet according to claim 68, wherein the plate (142) is connected to the body (140) by one or more webs (144) of material.

70. A dispensing outlet as described in claim 68, further comprising a plate (142) connected to the body (140) of the inlet container (138) via one or more webs (144) in the portion of the inlet container (138) where the cannula (65) is attached to the body (140).

71. 69. A dispensing outlet according to claim 68, wherein the plate (142) has a flat outer surface (146).

Images