Cartridge for a dispensing device having a movable grip plate

Abstract

A cartridge for a dispensing device may include a grip plate, the grip plate being at least axially movably attached to the cartridge and axially securable to the cartridge.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cartridge for a dispensing device and a method for adapting the distance between the end of the cartridge and the actual position of the grip plate. [Background technology]

[0002] Dispensing devices come in different forms and sizes. Furthermore, dispensing devices can be used in many different applications, such as medical, dental or industrial applications.

[0003] However, the operation of the dispensing device can almost always be the same regardless of the application. The dispensing device may typically include a container or cartridge containing the material. The material may be extracted from the container through an opening located at one end of the container. To extract the material through the opening, the material may be pushed out of the container using, for example, a plunger with a piston.

[0004] The dispensing device may also include a grip plate disposed at the end of the container where the piston is inserted into the container. The grip plate may help control the force applied to the plunger. For example, a user may press the plunger with their thumb while simultaneously holding the grip plate with their index and middle fingers to control the force applied by pressing the plunger.

[0005] Controlling the force can be difficult and leads to less than desirable dispensing results.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for methods and devices to improve the ergonomic handling of dispensing devices and to utilize the force required to dispense material from the dispensing device. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present disclosure provides a cartridge, a method and a dispensing device as set forth in the independent claims. Embodiments are set forth in the dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

[0008] In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a cartridge for a dispensing device, the cartridge including a grip plate, the grip plate being at least axially movably attached to the cartridge and axially securable to the cartridge.

[0009] The cartridge may be configured to receive a material, which may be liquid or viscous. The cartridge may include a first end and a second end. Further, the cartridge may include a first opening at the first end and a second opening at the second end. The cartridge may be configured to receive a piston through the first opening at the first end. The cartridge may be configured such that a needle or nozzle is attached to the second end, and a material contained in the cartridge can be dispensed from the cartridge through the second opening at the second end and the needle or nozzle. Any suitable material for a particular application of the cartridge can be received and contained by the cartridge. The cartridge may include one or more containers, each of which may be configured to receive and contain a material.

[0010] The dispensing device may be, for example, a syringe used by dentists for injecting narcotics or for filling teeth. The gripping plate may be ergonomically shaped. Furthermore, the gripping plate may be arranged on the outer surface of the cartridge.

[0011] The axial direction may be defined as the direction from the first end of the cartridge to the second end of the cartridge, or in other words, the axial direction may be described by the longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

[0012] The grip plate is axially movably attached to the cartridge and axially fixable to the cartridge, thereby achieving optimal ergonomic positioning of the grip plate on the surface of the cartridge. For example, the grip plate may be fixed to the cartridge at a position that may be optimal for the size of the user's hand or the force required to extract material from the cartridge. This may improve the handling of a dispensing device equipped with the cartridge.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the cross section of the cartridge perpendicular to the axial direction may be circular, oval, or D-shaped. The cross section of the cartridge can be described by a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. A D-shaped cross section can have a circular cross section on one side of the cross section and a rectangular cross section on the other side of the cross section. Alternatively, the cross section of the cartridge can be oval or elliptical.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the cartridge may include two containers arranged side by side, and the two containers may have equal or unequal volumes and / or equal or unequal outer cross-sectional areas. Each of the two containers may be configured to receive and contain a material, and one container may contain a different material from the other container. Each of the two containers may be a cylinder, i.e., may include a cylindrical shape. However, the two containers may also have different shapes.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the cartridge may have a circular or oval outer shape. The cartridge may accommodate at least one container therein. The cartridge may have a different outer shape from the cartridge's inner shape. The cartridge's inner shape may be adapted to the shape of the at least one container inside the cartridge. For example, if the at least one container is D-shaped, the cartridge's inner shape may be D-shaped. If the cartridge includes two coaxially arranged containers, the cartridge's inner shape may be formed as a horizontal figure eight that can surround the two coaxially arranged containers. The cartridge may have an elliptical outer shape. The circular, oval, or elliptical outer shape of the cartridge may be beneficial for handling by a dispensing device.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be unlockable to release a fixed distance between the one end of the cartridge and the grip plate. The grip plate may be further lockable to a position between the first end of the cartridge and the second end of the cartridge to lock in a different distance between the one end of the cartridge and the grip plate. In this way, the grip plate may be positioned optimally between the first end of the cartridge and the second end of the cartridge.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the grip plate can include at least two oppositely disposed handles. The grip plate may include two, three, four, or more handles. The at least two oppositely disposed handles can be extruded in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The at least two handles of the grip plate can be positioned on the cartridge such that a user can easily grasp the at least two handles with their fingers. Such handles can facilitate easy use of the cartridge or a dispensing device including the cartridge.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the at least two oppositely disposed handles may be square or circular, which may be beneficial when using a cartridge.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be circumferentially closed and positioned over the cartridge, which may be beneficial when moving the grip plate over the cartridge because the grip plate cannot be removed from the cartridge while the grip plate is moving.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be movable back and forth along the axial direction of the cartridge. The axial direction of the cartridge may be the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The term "forward" may mean that the grip plate is movable along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge toward the second end of the cartridge. The term "rearward" may mean that the grip plate is movable along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge toward the first end of the cartridge. The ability to move the grip plate back and forth may be useful when adjusting the optimal distance between one end of the cartridge and the grip plate or between the plunger and the grip plate. Furthermore, if the cartridge is refillable, it may be useful to return the grip plate. For example, when the cartridge is emptied, it may be refilled with material, and the grip plate may be repositioned by retracting the grip plate along the axial direction of the cartridge. The grip plate may be movable back to its position at the first end of the cartridge.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be securable to the cartridge using a lip. The lip may surround an outer surface of the cartridge. The lip may be formed from a flexible material, such as a synthetic material. The lip may be attached to an inner surface of the grip plate. Such a lip may be useful for continuously moving the grip plate along the axial direction of the cartridge.

[0022] According to this embodiment, a lip may be attached to the grip plate and may be positioned between the grip plate and the cartridge. The lip may be positioned to gradually expand as more force is applied to the grip plate, causing the grip plate to move. The force applied to the grip plate may be a counter force to the force applied to the plunger when ejecting material from the cartridge. This feature allows the grip plate to move along the axial direction of the cartridge when a relatively small force is applied. Meanwhile, the grip plate may be fixed in position on the cartridge when a relatively large force is applied to the grip plate.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the lip may be inclined on at least one side. The inclined lip may be configured to create tension in an axial direction. The tension may prevent the lip, and therefore the gripping plate, from moving in this axial direction. The gripping plate may therefore be fixed in this axial direction. Meanwhile, the inclined portion may be configured to allow the gripping plate to move axially to the other side.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be continuously movable between the first end of the cartridge and the second end of the cartridge, and the grip plate may be securable to the cartridge at any position between the first end of the cartridge and the second end of the cartridge by clamping a lip between the grip plate and the cartridge. The clamping may mean that a force or tension may exist between the lip and the outer surface of the cartridge and between the lip and the grip plate, which force or tension prevents movement of the grip plate. Such an embodiment may be beneficially used to frequently adjust the distance between the grip plate and the first end of the cartridge.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the cartridge may further include a plurality of grooves on the outer surface of the cartridge, the grooves being arranged parallel to one another and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, which may advantageously be used to define positions on the cartridge to which grip plates may be secured.

[0026] According to this embodiment, each groove of the plurality of grooves may be configured to receive a lip. The lip may be received by the respective groove as the grip plate moves over the respective groove along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The grip plate may be locked in position in the respective groove when the lip is received by the respective groove. If a force greater than the retention force is applied to the grip plate to push the lip out of the groove, the grip plate may be unlockable from this position. The retention force may be a force that prevents the lip from exiting the groove.

[0027] According to one embodiment, each groove of the plurality of grooves may be disposed completely or partially circumferentially on the cartridge. Grooves disposed completely circumferentially on the cartridge may generate a higher retention force and thus may more stably secure the grip plate to the cartridge. On the other hand, grooves disposed partially circumferentially on the cartridge may be beneficial when the grip plate is disposed partially circumferentially on the outer surface of the cartridge.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be movable along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge between the first end and the second end of the cartridge at a predetermined step defined by the plurality of grooves, and the grip plate may be securable to the cartridge at any predetermined step between the first end and the second end of the cartridge by receiving a lip through one of the plurality of grooves. The plurality of grooves, and therefore the predetermined step, may be disposed equidistantly along the outer surface of the cartridge. The distance between each pair of grooves in the plurality of grooves may be different. For example, the distance between the two grooves at the first end of the cartridge may be smaller than the distance between the two grooves in the center of the cartridge, i.e., between the first end and the second end of the cartridge.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be securable to the cartridge using a locking rail. The locking rail may extend axially, particularly along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge, from near the first end of the cartridge to approximately the second end of the cartridge. Such a locking rail may advantageously be used to continuously move the grip plate along the cartridge.

[0030] According to this embodiment, the lock rail may include a longitudinal recess on the outer surface of the cartridge, and the grip plate may include a nose, the nose being recessed in the lock rail. The longitudinal recess may be configured to receive the nose of the grip plate. The nose of the grip plate may be controlled by the longitudinal recess such that the grip plate is movable back and forth along the axial direction of the cartridge in the longitudinal direction of the recess. The nose may be configured to prevent movement of the grip plate perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The grip plate may be secured at any position on the lock rail using a clamp or latch. The clamp or latch may be configured to secure the nose of the grip plate at a selected position on the lock rail.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be securable to the cartridge using a locking device. Such a locking device may include tongues and grooves or teeth and cams disposed on the cartridge and the grip plate, respectively. One portion of the locking device may be disposed on the grip plate, and a corresponding portion of the locking device may be disposed on the cartridge. The one portion and the corresponding portion may engage with each other such that the grip plate may be securable to the cartridge.

[0032] According to this embodiment, the locking device may include teeth disposed on the cartridge and one or more cams disposed on the gripping plate, and the teeth and the cams may mesh with each other when the gripping plate is locked. The cams may be movable over the teeth and may be received in notches between two teeth on the teeth. This arrangement of the teeth and cams on the locking device may be comparable to the principle of a cable tie. Therefore, the arrangement of the teeth and cams may allow movement of the gripping plate in one direction, for example, from the first end of the cartridge to the second end of the cartridge. Movement of the gripping plate from the second end of the cartridge to the first end of the cartridge may be impossible, i.e., the gripping plate may be fixed against movement in that direction.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the locking device may include a latch for locking and unlocking the grip plate to and from the cartridge. The latch may be configured to press the teeth against the cam when the grip plate is locked to the cartridge. The latch may be applied in any position where the teeth and cam are engaged. The latch may include an open position and a closed position. The teeth and cam may be engaged in a closed position of the latch. When the latch is in the open position, the teeth and cam may be movable relative to one another.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be securable to the cartridge using at least one bulge or at least one recess. The at least one bulge or the at least one recess may be disposed on an outer surface of the cartridge. The grip plate may be securable to the cartridge by snapping onto the at least one bulge or by snapping into the at least one recess. The grip plate may include respective recesses or respective protrusions. Each recess may be configured to receive one of the at least one bulge when the grip plate moves over the bulge. Accordingly, the at least one recess of the cartridge may be configured to receive the protrusion of the grip plate when the grip plate moves over the recess. Such a configuration of the at least one bulge or the at least one recess on the surface of the cartridge may be useful for predefining a position on the cartridge at which the grip plate can be secured.

[0035] According to this embodiment, the at least one bulge or at least one depression may be disposed completely or partially circumferentially on the cartridge. A completely circumferentially disposed bulge or depression may enable stable fixation of the gripping plate to the cartridge. On the other hand, a partially circumferentially disposed bulge or depression on the cartridge may be beneficial when the gripping plate is disposed partially circumferentially on the outer surface of the cartridge.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be deformable. Such a deformable grip plate may be useful for moving the grip plate along the cartridge and securing the grip plate to the cartridge. In particular, clamps or latches may not be required to secure the grip plate to the cartridge.

[0037] According to this embodiment, the grip plate may include a V-shaped gap between the two oppositely disposed handles. The V-shaped gap may be useful for deforming the grip plate. The V-shaped gap may widen when the grip plate is deformed, for example, when the grip plate is in a deformed state.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be movable back and forth along the axial direction of the cartridge when the grip plate is in a deformed state, and may be fixable to the cartridge when the grip plate is in a non-deformed state. The grip plate may be put into a deformed state by pushing two oppositely arranged handles of the grip plate in a direction corresponding to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge, in particular by pushing the grip plate in a direction from the first end of the cartridge to the second end of the cartridge, thereby widening the V-shaped gap and making the grip plate movable along the axial direction of the cartridge. Alternatively, the grip plate may be in a non-deformed state if it does not need to be pushed in that direction but may be pulled in the opposite direction, for example, from the second end of the cartridge to the first end of the cartridge, or if it does not need to be pulled or pushed at all. The grip plate may be fixed to the cartridge when the grip plate is in a non-deformed state,

[0039] According to one embodiment, the cartridge may include a plurality of cavities arranged parallel to one another and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis on the outer surface of the cartridge, and the grip plate may include at least one hook, which may engage with at least one of the plurality of cavities when the grip plate is undeformed to secure the grip plate to the cartridge. The plurality of cavities may be formed by teeth on the outer surface of the cartridge. The at least one hook may be disposed on an inner side of the grip plate, and the inner side of the grip plate may contact the outer side of the cartridge. The at least one hook may extend from the grip plate, particularly from the inner side of the grip plate, in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The at least one hook may be released from one of the plurality of cavities by moving the grip plate in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge from the first end of the cartridge to the second end of the cartridge. Thus, the at least one hook can jump to an adjacent cavity of one cavity, and the at least one hook can engage with the adjacent cavity to secure the grip plate to the cartridge at the position of the adjacent cavity.

[0040] According to another embodiment, the grip plate may include at least one deformable cantilever that can deform as the grip plate moves along the outer surface of the cartridge. The at least one cantilever may be used to secure the grip plate to the cartridge.

[0041] According to this embodiment, the at least one deformable cantilever may be fixed to the grip plate at one end of the at least one deformable cantilever, and the at least one deformable cantilever may include a hook at the other end of the at least one deformable cantilever. The at least one hook may be disposed on an inner side of the cantilever, and the inner side of the cantilever may face the outer side of the cartridge. The at least one hook may extend from the cantilever, particularly from the inner side of the cantilever, in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the cartridge may include a plurality of notches on an outer surface of the cartridge arranged parallel to one another and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The plurality of notches may be formed by teeth on the outer surface of the cartridge. Each notch of the plurality of notches may be configured to receive at least one hook.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the at least one deformable cantilever may be movable in a first direction along the axial direction of the cartridge, and the hook of the at least one deformable cantilever may be configured to slide over at least one of the plurality of notches. The first direction may be along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge from the first end of the cartridge to the second end of the cartridge. The at least one deformable cantilever may move in the first direction along the axial direction of the cartridge when the grip plate moves in the first direction. By moving the grip plate, and therefore the at least one cantilever, in the first direction, the hook may be released from one of the plurality of notches. Thus, the at least one hook may jump to an adjacent notch, and the at least one hook may engage with the adjacent notch to secure the grip plate to the cartridge at the position of the adjacent notch.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the at least one deformable cantilever may be fixable in a second direction along an axial direction of the cartridge, and the hook of the at least one deformable cantilever may be configured to engage with at least one of the plurality of notches. The second direction may be along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge from the second end of the cartridge to the first end of the cartridge.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the grip plate can include at least one U-shaped channel. The U-shaped channel can be arranged so that the two arms forming the U can be positioned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. Such a U-shaped channel can be useful for moving the grip plate on the cartridge and securing the grip plate to the cartridge.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the cartridge may include at least one pin disposed on an exterior surface of the cartridge. The at least one pin may define a location on the cartridge at which a grip plate can be secured to the cartridge. The cartridge may include a first pin disposed on the exterior surface of the cartridge at a first end of the cartridge. The cartridge may include a second pin disposed on the exterior surface of the cartridge at a second end of the cartridge.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the at least one U-shaped channel may be configured to receive at least one pin. Such a U-shaped channel located on the grip plate may be useful for retaining the grip plate on the cartridge.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the cartridge, and the rotation of the grip plate may be controlled by at least one pin in the at least one channel. The grip plate may be rotatable such that the at least one pin slides along the inner surface of the U-shaped channel. The U-shaped channel may include a first tube and a second tube. The first tube may be disposed in an arm of the U-shaped channel toward the first end of the cartridge. The second tube may be disposed in an arm of the U-shaped channel toward the second end of the cartridge. The tube may be configured to receive the pin, and in particular, the pin may slide through the tube. Therefore, such a tube may be useful for moving the grip plate along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge by sliding the pin through the second tube, the U-shaped channel, and the first tube, or vice versa.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the cartridge may include a first pair of oppositely arranged pins and a second pair of oppositely arranged pins, the first pair of oppositely arranged pins may be disposed at a first end of the cartridge and the second pair of oppositely arranged pins may be disposed at a second end of the cartridge, the grip plate may be movable from the first pair of oppositely arranged pins to the second pair of oppositely arranged pins, and the grip plate may be lockable using the second pair of oppositely arranged pins. The pins of each pair of pins may be disposed on an outer surface of the cartridge perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. Using a pair of pins instead of a single pin may result in more stable locking of the grip plate to the cartridge.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be rotatably disposed on the outer surface of the cartridge between a first rotational position and a second rotational position. The grip plate may be rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be movable along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge between the first end and the second end of the cartridge when the grip plate is in a first rotational position, and the grip plate may be fixable in a position between the first end and the second end of the cartridge when the grip plate is in a second rotational position. Such a grip plate may be easy to use to lock and unlock the grip plate on the cartridge.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may include a first plurality of dividing bars arranged parallel to one another on the inner surface of the grip plate along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The first plurality of dividing bars may be arranged on the inner or inner surface of the grip plate, which may face the outer or outer surface of the cartridge. The first plurality of dividing bars may be arranged in sections on the inner surface of the grip plate, for example, dividing bars of the first plurality of dividing bars may not be circumferentially closed on the inner surface of the grip plate. Each dividing bar of the first plurality of dividing bars may extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge from the grip plate, particularly from the inner or inner surface of the grip plate, toward the outer surface of the cartridge. The distance between two dividing bars of the first plurality of dividing bars may define a predetermined step. The grip plate may be movable along the cartridge and may be fixable to the cartridge at this predetermined step.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the cartridge may include a second plurality of dividing bars arranged parallel to one another on the outer surface of the cartridge along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The second plurality of dividing bars may be arranged in sections on the outer surface of the cartridge, for example, dividing bars of the second plurality of dividing bars may not be circumferentially closed on the outer surface of the cartridge. Each dividing bar of the second plurality of dividing bars may extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge from the cartridge, particularly from the outer surface of the cartridge, toward the inner surface of the gripping plate. The distance between two dividing bars of the second plurality of dividing bars may define a predetermined step. The distance between two dividing bars of the second plurality of dividing bars may be equal to the distance between two dividing bars of the first plurality of dividing bars. The gripping plate may be movable along the cartridge and may be securable to the cartridge at this predetermined step.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the first plurality of dividing bars can engage with a plurality of recesses formed between the second plurality of dividing bars when the grip plate is in the second rotational position. Each recess of the plurality of recesses may be formed between two dividing bars of the second plurality of dividing bars. The grip plate may be secured to the cartridge when at least a portion of the first plurality of dividing bars engages with at least one recess of the second plurality of dividing bars. The grip plate may be secured to the cartridge when the grip plate is in the second rotational position.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may include an internal thread. The internal thread may be disposed on an inner surface of the grip plate, and the inner surface or inside of the grip plate may face the outer surface of the cartridge. The grip plate may be rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the cartridge and may be movable in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge using the internal thread. Such a grip plate may be advantageous in that the grip plate may be continuously movable along the cartridge.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the cartridge may include an external thread. The external thread may be disposed on an outer surface of the cartridge, and the outer surface of the cartridge may face an inner surface of the grip plate. The grip plate may be rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the cartridge and may be movable in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge using the internal and external threads. Such a grip plate may be advantageous in that the grip plate may be continuously movable along the cartridge.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be axially movable by threading the female threads into the male threads. The axial movement of the grip plate may depend on the thread pitch of the female and male threads.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be configured to snap onto a ridge disposed on an outer surface of the cartridge. The cartridge may include at least one ridge disposed on the outer surface of the cartridge. The at least one ridge may be disposed completely or partially circumferentially on the outer surface of the cartridge. The at least one ridge may be disposed in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The grip plate may include an opening configured to receive the cartridge. The opening in the grip plate may be smaller than the diameter of the cartridge, and in particular, the minimum distance of the opening may be smaller than the diameter of the cartridge. The grip plate may be configured to snap onto the at least one ridge in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge by pressing the grip plate onto the ridge. The opening in the grip plate may widen when the grip plate is pressed onto the ridge. When the ridge is received by the grip plate, the opening may narrow. Such a grip plate may be advantageous in that the grip plate is removable from the cartridge and can be used with different cartridges.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the grip plate can surround more than 50% of the circumference of the cartridge when the grip plate is snapped onto a ridge on the exterior surface of the cartridge. The grip plate can be in an attached position when the grip plate is snapped onto the at least one ridge. The grip plate can be in an unattached position when the grip plate is detached from the at least one ridge. The grip plate can surround more than 50% of the circumference of the cartridge when the grip plate is in the attached position.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the cartridge may include at least two ridges disposed completely or partially circumferentially on an outer surface of the cartridge. The at least two ridges may define a position on the cartridge to which a grip plate can be secured. Thus, the at least two ridges may define a predetermined step on the outer surface of the cartridge to which the grip plate can be secured.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the grip plate can include at least one groove configured to receive at least one of the at least two ridges. The at least one groove can be disposed on an inner surface of the grip plate, and the inner surface or interior of the grip plate can face an outer surface of the cartridge. The at least one groove can be configured to secure or retain the grip plate to the cartridge when the at least one groove receives at least one of the at least two ridges. The at least one groove can at least partially surround at least one of the at least two ridges when the at least one groove receives one of the at least two ridges.

[0062] According to one embodiment, a first of the at least two ridges may be located at a first end of the cartridge, and a second of the at least two ridges may be located at a second end of the cartridge. Such an embodiment may be useful for optimizing the handling of the dispensing device for different fill levels of the cartridge. For example, when the cartridge is fully filled with material, the first ridge located at the first end of the cartridge can be used to secure the gripping plate to the cartridge. When the fill level of the cartridge is reduced, the gripping plate can be moved to the second ridge, and the second ridge can be used to secure the gripping plate to the cartridge.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be securable to the first end of the cartridge or the second end of the cartridge by snapping the grip plate onto the first ridge or the second ridge such that at least one groove can receive the first ridge or the second ridge.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be movable between the first end of the cartridge and the second end of the cartridge by removing the grip plate from the first ridge and snapping the grip plate onto the second ridge.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the grip plate can include a first groove and a second groove configured to receive a corresponding first ridge and a corresponding second ridge of the at least two ridges. Such a grip plate can be useful for stabilizing the fixation of the grip plate to the cartridge. The grip plate can be fixed using the first ridge and the second ridge.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be securable to the first end of the cartridge by snapping a first groove of the grip plate onto the first ridge and a second groove of the grip plate onto the second ridge, such that the first groove may receive the first ridge and the second groove may receive the second ridge.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be movable between the first end of the cartridge and the second end of the cartridge by disengaging the first groove of the grip plate from the first ridge and the second groove of the grip plate from the second ridge, and by rotating the grip plate so that the first groove of the grip plate can receive the second ridge and the second groove of the grip plate can receive the first ridge.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be securable to the second end of the cartridge by snapping a first groove of the grip plate onto the second ridge and by snapping a second groove of the grip plate onto the first ridge, such that the first groove can receive the second ridge and the second groove can receive the first ridge.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may include a first groove and a second groove configured to receive a ridge, the ridge may be located at the second end of the cartridge, the first groove may be located at the first end of the grip plate, and the second groove may be located at the second end of the grip plate. The first groove and the second groove may be located parallel to each other on an inner surface of the grip plate. Such a grip plate may be useful for securing the grip plate to the cartridge in two different positions using only one ridge.

[0070] According to this embodiment, the grip plate may be securable to the first end of the cartridge by snapping a second groove of the grip plate over the raised portion such that the second groove receives the raised portion. In such an embodiment, the first end of the groove may correspond to the first end of the cartridge, and the second end of the grip plate may correspond to the second end of the cartridge.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be movable between the first end of the cartridge and the second end of the cartridge by disengaging the second groove portion of the grip plate from the ridge and rotating the grip plate so that the first groove portion of the grip plate can receive the ridge.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the grip plate can be securable to the second end of the cartridge by snapping a first groove of the grip plate onto the ridge such that the first groove can receive the ridge. In such an embodiment, the first end of the groove can correspond to the second end of the cartridge, and the second end of the grip plate can correspond to the first end of the cartridge.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be located at one end of an open tube.

[0074] According to this embodiment, the open tube may be configured to snap onto the exterior surface of the cartridge.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the open tube can surround more than 50% of the circumference of the cartridge when the open tube is snapped onto the exterior surface of the cartridge.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the cartridge may include a rib disposed completely or partially circumferentially on a first end of an outer surface of the cartridge.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be fixable in a first position on the first end of the cartridge by snapping the open tube onto the outer surface of the first end of the cartridge so that one end of the open tube contacts the rib.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be fixable in a second position on the first end of the cartridge by snapping the open tube onto the outer surface of the first end of the cartridge so that the other end of the open tube, positioned opposite one end of the open tube, contacts the rib.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be movable and lockable at predetermined intervals. Such a grip plate may be advantageous in that the locking of the grip plate can be reliably repeated. For example, the grip plate may always be lockable at the same predetermined interval.

[0080] According to another embodiment, the grip plate may be continuously movable on the cartridge and may be fixable at any position on the cartridge. Such a grip plate may be advantageous in that the fixation of the grip plate is not limited to a predetermined step. Thus, the grip plate may be fixable at any position between the first end of the cartridge and the second end of the cartridge.

[0081] In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a method for adapting a distance between an end of a cartridge and an actual position of a gripping plate, in particular a cartridge, according to at least one of the preceding embodiments. The method includes the following steps: moving a gripping plate at least axially along the cartridge, in particular, the gripping plate being axially fixable to the cartridge. The distance between the end of the cartridge and the actual position of the gripping plate can be adapted to the size of the hand of a user of a dispensing device that can include the cartridge. Thus, the gripping plate can be individually adapted to each user.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the method may further include fixing the grip plate to fix the distance between the end of the cartridge and the axial position of the grip plate.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the method may further include moving the grip plate from a first position to a second position and securing the grip plate in the second position, wherein the first position may be located at a first end of the cartridge, the second position may be located at a second end of the cartridge, or the second position may be located between the first end of the cartridge and the second end of the cartridge.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the fixation of the grip plate may be performed using a lip.

[0085] According to this embodiment, the fixation of the grip plate may be performed using a groove configured to receive the lip, and the groove may be located on the outer surface of the cartridge.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the securing of the grip plate may be accomplished using a locking rail.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the fixation of the grip plate may be performed using a fixation device.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the grip plate may be secured using teeth disposed on the cartridge and one or more cams disposed on the grip plate, and the teeth and the one or more cams may mesh with each other when the grip plate is secured to the cartridge.

[0089] According to one embodiment, securing of the grip plate may be accomplished using a latch.

[0090] According to this embodiment, the method may further include the steps of opening a latch to unlock the grip plate from the cartridge before moving the grip plate at least axially along the cartridge, and closing the latch to secure the grip plate to the cartridge after moving the grip plate at least axially along the cartridge.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the fixing of the grip plate may be performed using at least one bulge or at least one depression.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the fixation of the grip plate may be performed using the deformable grip plate in a non-deformed state.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the fixation of the grip plate may be performed using at least one deformable cantilever.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the fixation of the grip plate may be performed using at least one U-shaped channel.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the fixation of the grip plate may be performed using a plurality of split bars.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the fixation of the grip plate may be performed using internal and external threads.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the fixation of the grip plate may be performed using at least one ridge.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the fixation of the grip plate may be performed using open tubes and ribs.

[0099] In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a dispensing device. The dispensing device includes a cartridge according to one of the embodiments described herein, a piston, and a plunger assembly cooperating with the piston. The dispensing device may further include a fastening or loosening unit for capping a cap or application nozzle onto the dispensing device. Furthermore, the mixer may be attachable to the dispensing device using a bayonet closure, a screw thread, or other fastener, or a movable pre-attached retention unit or retention valve.

[0100] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein in conjunction with the following drawings, which are schematic representations of: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0101] [Figure 1] 1A-1D illustrate a dispensing device according to various embodiments. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a circular cartridge. [Figure 2B] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an oval cartridge. [Figure 2C] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a D-shaped cartridge. [Figure 3A] FIG. 10 shows a grip plate disposed at a first end of the cartridge. [Figure 3B] FIG. 10 shows a grip plate disposed at a second end of the cartridge. [Figure 4A] FIG. 10 illustrates a lip and grooves disposed on the exterior surface of the cartridge. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge of FIG. 4A. [Figure 5A] FIG. 10 shows a locking rail disposed on the outer surface of the cartridge. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge of FIG. 5A. [Figure 6A] FIG. 10 shows teeth disposed on the outer surface of the cartridge. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge of FIG. 6A. [Figure 7A]10 is a cross-sectional view of a plurality of bulges disposed on the outer surface of the cartridge. FIG. [Figure 7B] 10 is a cross-sectional view of a plurality of recesses disposed on the outer surface of the cartridge. [Figure 8A] 1 illustrates a deformable grip plate according to one embodiment. [Figure 8B] 8B is a cross-sectional view of the deformable grip plate of FIG. 8A. [Figure 8C] 8B is a side view of the dispensing device with the deformable grip plate of FIG. 8A. FIG. [Figure 8D] FIG. 8D is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device of FIG. 8C. [Figure 9A] 1 illustrates a grip plate with a deformable cantilever according to one embodiment. FIG. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a side view of the grip plate of FIG. 9A. [Figure 9C] 9B is a side view of a dispensing device including the grip plate of FIG. 9A. FIG. [Figure 9D] FIG. 9D is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device of FIG. 9C. [Figure 10A] FIG. 12 is a side view of a grip plate with a U-shaped channel according to one embodiment. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a side view of a dispensing device including the grip plate of FIG. 10A. [Figure 10C] FIG. 10C is a perspective view of the dispensing device of FIG. 10B. [Figure 10D] FIG. 10C is a further perspective view of the dispensing device of FIG. 10B. [Figure 11A] 10A-10C illustrate grip plates with split bars according to one embodiment. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the grip plate of FIG. 11A. [Figure 11C] FIG. 11B is a top view of a dispensing device including the grip plate of FIG. 11A. [Figure 11D] FIG. 11D is a side view of the dispensing device of FIG. [Figure 11E] FIG. 11D is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device of FIG. [Figure 12A]10A-10C illustrate a grip plate with openings according to one embodiment. [Figure 12B] 12B is a perspective view of a dispensing device including the grip plate of FIG. 12A. FIG. [Figure 12C] FIG. 12C is a side view of the dispensing device of FIG. 12B. [Figure 12D] FIG. 12D is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device of FIG. 12C. [Figure 13A] 10A-10C illustrate grip plates with open tubes according to one embodiment. [Figure 13B] 13B is a perspective view of a dispensing device including the grip plate of FIG. 13A. FIG. [Figure 13C] 13B is a further perspective view of the dispensing device including the grip plate of FIG. 13A. FIG. [Figure 14A] 1 is a perspective view of a dispensing device including a deformable grip plate disposed at one end of an open tube in a first position. [Figure 14B] FIG. 14B is a side view of the dispensing device of FIG. 14A. [Figure 14C] FIG. 14C is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device of FIG. 14B. [Figure 15A] FIG. 14B is a perspective view of the dispensing device of FIG. 14A in a second position. [Figure 15B] FIG. 15B is a side view of the dispensing device of FIG. 15A. [Figure 15C] FIG. 15C is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device of FIG. 15B. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0102] 1 illustrates a dispensing device 100 according to various embodiments. The dispensing device 100 may be a syringe. The dispensing device 100 may include a cartridge 102, a grip plate 104, a plunger 106, a piston 108, and a needle 110.

[0103] The grip plate 104 may be at least initially disposed on an outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 at a first end 112 of the cartridge 102. The grip plate 104 may be at least axially movably attached to the cartridge 102 and may be axially fixable to the cartridge 102. The needle 110 may be disposed at a second end 114 of the cartridge 102. The cartridge 102 may be, for example, a cylindrical tube. The cartridge 102 may have a first opening at the first end 112 and a second opening at the second end 114.

[0104] The grip plate 104 may be axially movable in a direction along a longitudinal axis A between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. The longitudinal axis A may define a direction from the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 to the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. The grip plate 104 may be securable to the cartridge 102 at a position between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102.

[0105] A first opening in the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 may be configured to receive the piston 108. The plunger 106 may be attached to the second end of the piston 108. The first end of the piston 108 may be disposed opposite the second end of the piston 108. The first end of the piston 108 may be configured to be inserted into the first end 112 of the cartridge 102. In an assembled state of the dispensing device 100, as shown in FIG. 1 , a needle 110 may be attached to the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. Furthermore, the first end of the piston 108 may be inserted into the first end 112 of the cartridge 102.

[0106] 1 , cartridge 102 may be completely filled with material, i.e., cartridge 102 may contain material from approximately first end 112 of cartridge 102 to second end 114 of cartridge 102. In this context, the term "approximately" may mean that the first end of piston 108 may be inserted into the first opening of first end 112 of cartridge 102 such that the material may not reach the first opening of first end 112 of cartridge 102. The first end of piston 108 may contact the material inside cartridge 102.

[0107] The material inside the cartridge 102 may be dispensed through the needle 110 by performing the following steps. A user, such as a dentist or doctor, can grasp the dispensing device 100 by placing one finger, such as the thumb, on the plunger 106 and gripping the grip plate 104 with two other fingers, such as the index and middle fingers. The piston 108 may be pushed into the cartridge 102 in a direction along the longitudinal axis A by pressing the thumb against the plunger 106. The index and middle fingers can support the thumb's pressing against the plunger 106. A counterforce to the force that may be applied by pressing the thumb against the plunger 106 can be generated in that the index and middle fingers can be supported on the grip plate 104. Pressing the thumb against the plunger 106 can force the material inside the cartridge 102 out of the cartridge 102 through a second opening in the second end 114 of the cartridge 102, and particularly through the needle 110 attached to the second end 114 of the cartridge 102.

[0108] 2A, 2B, and 2C show cross-sectional views of various embodiments of the cartridge 102. The cross-sections 122, 124, 126 of the cartridge 102 can be described by cross-sections perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102.

[0109] 2A shows the circular cross section 122 of the circular cartridge 102. The circular cross section 122 may describe a circle, and in particular, the circular cross section 122 of the outer surface 116 of the circular cartridge 102 may be circular.

[0110] 2B shows the oval cross section 124 of the oval cartridge 102. The oval cross section 124 may represent an oval shape or may be elliptical, and in particular, the oval cross section 124 of the outer surface 116 of the oval cartridge 102 may be oval.

[0111] 2C shows a D-shaped cross section 126 of the D-shaped cartridge 102. The D-shaped cross section 126 may represent a D shape. The D-shaped cross section 126 may include a circular cross section on one side of the D-shaped cross section 126 and a rectangular shape on the other side of the D-shaped cross section 126. Thus, the D-shaped cross section 126 of the outer surface 116 of the D-shaped cartridge 102 may appear like the letter "D."

[0112] 3A and 3B illustrate cartridges 102 having different positions of the grip plate 104 thereon. FIG. 3A illustrates the grip plate 104 disposed at a first position 132 on a first end 112 of the cartridge 102. The grip plate 104 may be circumferentially closed and disposed on the cartridge 102. Additionally, the piston 108 may be inserted into the cartridge 102 at a first opening of the cartridge 102. However, the piston 108 may be inserted only a small amount into the cartridge 102 so that most of the piston 108 can protrude from the cartridge 102. This may be because the cartridge is completely filled with material.

[0113] The grip plate 104 may be releasably attached to the cartridge 102 to release a fixed distance between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the axial position of the grip plate 104, or to release a fixed distance between the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 and the axial position of the grip plate 104. The grip plate 104 may be continuously movable along the longitudinal axis A between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. In particular, the grip plate 104 may be continuously movable from a first position 132, in which the grip plate 104 is disposed at the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 (as shown in FIG. 3A ), to a second position 134, in which the grip plate 104 is disposed at the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 (as shown in FIG. 3B ), and vice versa. The second position 134 may be located anywhere between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. Thus, the grip plate 104 may be movable axially back and forth along the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102. It may also be possible for the grip plate 104 to be movable in predetermined steps along the longitudinal axis A between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102.

[0114] 3B shows the grip plate 104 disposed at a second position 134 at the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. The grip plate 104 can be moved from the first position 132 to the second position 134 by releasing the grip plate 104 from the first position 132 (which can secure the grip plate 104), axially moving the grip plate 104 from the first position 132 along the cartridge 102 in a direction defined by the longitudinal axis A, and securing the grip plate 104 at the second position 134. The grip plate 104 may be securable to the cartridge 102 at any position between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102, particularly at any position between the first position 132 of the cartridge 102 and the second position 134 of the cartridge 102.

[0115] FIG. 4A shows a lip 140 and a plurality of grooves 142 disposed on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The lip 140 may be attached to the grip plate 104. The cartridge 102 may include a plurality of grooves 142, and each groove 142 of the plurality of grooves 142 may be disposed parallel to one another on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A. Each groove 142 of the plurality of grooves 142 may be disposed completely or partially circumferentially around the cartridge 102. The plurality of grooves 142 may be disposed on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. The plurality of grooves 142 may be disposed at equal intervals between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. Additionally or alternatively, at least some of the plurality of grooves 142 may be disposed at different distances between two grooves 142 on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102.

[0116] Each groove 142 of the plurality of grooves 142 may be configured to receive the lip 140. Thus, each groove 142 of the plurality of grooves 142 may predefine a position or step between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. The grip plate 104 may be movable along the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102 between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 across the predefined step defined by the plurality of grooves 142. The grip plate 104 may be securable to the cartridge 102 at any predefined step between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 by receiving the lip 140 through one groove 142 of the plurality of grooves 142.

[0117] FIG. 4B shows a cross-sectional view of the cartridge 102 of FIG. 4A. The grip plate 104 may be securable to the cartridge 102 using a lip 140. The lip 140 may be sloped on at least one side, as shown in FIG. 4B. Alternatively, the lip 140 may be sloped on both sides of the lip 140. The grip plate 104 may be continuously movable between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102, or the grip plate 104 may be securable to the cartridge 102 at any position between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 by clamping the lip 140 between the grip plate 104 and the cartridge 102.

[0118] 5A shows a locking rail 150 disposed on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The locking rail 150 may include a longitudinal recess 152. The longitudinal recess 152 may extend axially along the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102 from the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 to the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. The gripping plate 104 may be securable to the cartridge 102 using the locking rail 150. The gripping plate 104 may be movable along the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102 between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 by sliding the gripping plate 104 along the locking rail 150. The grip plate 104 may be securable to the cartridge 102 at any predetermined step between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102, for example, by clamping the grip plate 104 to the cartridge 102 using a clamp or latch (both not shown in FIG. 5A ). The grip plate 104 may be movable on the cartridge 102 by opening the clamp or latch to unlock the grip plate 104 from the cartridge 102 before moving the grip plate 104 at least axially along the cartridge 102. After moving the grip plate 104 along the cartridge 102 to a desired position on the cartridge 102 between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102, the clamp or latch may be closed to secure the grip plate 104 to the cartridge 102. The clamp or latch may be configured to press the grip plate 104 against the cartridge 102, thus securing the grip plate 104 to the cartridge 102.

[0119] FIG. 5B shows a cross-sectional view of the cartridge 102 of FIG. 5A. The cartridge 102 may include two oppositely disposed locking rails 150 disposed on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The grip plate 104 may include at least two oppositely disposed handles 156. The at least two oppositely disposed handles 156 may be square or circular. It is understood that the cartridge 102 may include only one locking rail 150 disposed on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102, and the grip plate 104 may include only one handle 156. The only handle 156 may be square or circular.

[0120] The grip plate 104, or each of the grip plates 104, may further include a nose 154. The nose 154 may be recessed in the lock rail 150. The nose 154 may be attached to the grip plate 104 by a bar 158. The bar 158 may extend through the longitudinal recess 152 of the lock rail 150. The bar 158 may connect the nose 154 to the grip plate 104. Furthermore, the bar 158 may control movement of the grip plate 104 within the lock rail 150, such that the grip plate 104 may be movable only axially along the longitudinal axis A.

[0121] The width of the longitudinal recess 152 may be smaller than the width of the nose 154. Therefore, movement of the grip plate 104 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A can be avoided. The width of the longitudinal recess 152 may be the distance between two edges of the lock rail 150. The distance between the two edges of the lock rail 150 may be measured perpendicular to the axial direction of the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102. The width of the nose 154 may also be measured perpendicular to the axial direction of the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102, and the distance of the nose 154 may be defined as the widest part of the nose 154.

[0122] FIG. 6A shows teeth 160 disposed on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The teeth 160 may include a plurality of teeth. The teeth 160 may extend axially along the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102 from the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 to the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. The grip plate 104 may be securable to the cartridge 102 using the teeth 160. Accordingly, the grip plate 104 may include at least one cam 162 (see FIG. 6B). The at least one cam 162 may have a plurality of teeth. The at least one cam 162 may be disposed on the grip plate 104 between the grip plate 104 and the teeth 160.

[0123] The grip plate 104 may be movable along the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102 between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 by sliding the grip plate 104 along the toothing 160. At least one cam 162 and the toothing 160 may be disengaged when the grip plate 104 moves along the toothing 160.

[0124] FIG. 6B shows a cross-sectional view of the cartridge 102 of FIG. 6A. The grip plate 104 may be securable to the cartridge 102 at any predetermined step, which may be defined by the teeth 160 and at least one cam 162 between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102, for example, by clamping the grip plate 104 to the cartridge 102 using a clamp or latch (both not shown in FIG. 6B). The clamp or latch may be configured to press the grip plate 104 against the cartridge 102, thus securing the grip plate to the cartridge 102. In particular, the clamp or latch may be configured to press the at least one cam 162 of the grip plate 104 against the teeth 160 of the cartridge 102. The clamp or latch may be configured to secure the grip plate 104 to the cartridge 102 and unlock the grip plate 104 from the cartridge 102. The grip plate 104 may be movable on the cartridge 102 by opening a clamp or latch to unlock the grip plate 104 from the cartridge 102 before moving the grip plate 104 at least axially along the cartridge 102. After moving the grip plate 104 along the cartridge 102 to a desired position on the cartridge 102 between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102, the clamp or latch may be closed to secure the grip plate 104 to the cartridge 102.

[0125] The teeth 160 and the at least one cam 162 may be equally toothed such that the teeth of the at least one cam 162 can intermesh with at least a portion of the teeth of the teeth 160. The teeth 160 and the one or more cams 162 may intermesh with one another when the grip plate 104 is secured to the cartridge 102. FIG. 6B shows the teeth 160 and the at least one cam 162 in a secured position.

[0126] In one embodiment, the at least one cam 162 may include at least one hook (not shown), which may hook onto the teeth 160. Thus, the grip plate 104 may be secured to the cartridge 102 using the at least one hook.

[0127] 7A shows a cross-sectional view of a plurality of bulges 170 disposed on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The cartridge 102 may include a plurality of bulges 170, and each bulge 170 of the plurality of bulges 170 may be disposed parallel to one another on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A. Each bulge 170 of the plurality of bulges 170 may be disposed completely or partially circumferentially on the cartridge 102. The plurality of bulges 170 may be disposed on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. The plurality of bulges 170 may be disposed at equal intervals between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. Additionally or alternatively, at least some of the plurality of bulges 170 may be disposed such that the distance between two bulges 170 on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 is different. Each bulge 170 of the plurality of bulges 170 may predefine a position or step between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 .

[0128] The grip plate 104 may be securable to the cartridge 102 using at least one bulge 170 of the plurality of bulges 170. Accordingly, the grip plate 104 may include a recess 172. The recess 172 may be disposed on the grip plate 104 between the grip plate 104 and the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The recess 172 may be configured to receive the at least one bulge 170.

[0129] The grip plate 104 may be movable between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 along the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102 by sliding the grip plate 104 along the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 over a predetermined step defined by the plurality of bulges 170. The recess 172 of the grip plate 104 may not receive one of the plurality of bulges 170 as the grip plate 104 moves along the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The recess 172 of the grip plate 104 may receive one of the plurality of bulges 170 as the grip plate 104 moves over the bulge 170. Thus, when the recess 172 of the grip plate 104 can receive the bulge 170, the grip plate 104 may be fixed in position at the bulge 170.

[0130] The grip plate 104 may be securable to the cartridge 102 at any predetermined step between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. The recess 172 of the grip plate may receive one of the bulges 170 when the grip plate 104 is secured to the one of the bulges 170.

[0131] 7B shows a cross-sectional view of a plurality of recesses 174 disposed on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The cartridge 102 can include a plurality of recesses 174, and each recess 174 of the plurality of recesses 174 may be disposed parallel to one another on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A. Each recess 174 of the plurality of recesses 174 may be disposed completely or partially circumferentially around the cartridge 102. The plurality of recesses 174 may be disposed on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. The plurality of recesses 174 may be disposed at equal intervals between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. Additionally or alternatively, at least some of the plurality of recesses 174 may be disposed at different distances between two recesses 174 on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. Each recess 174 of the plurality of recesses 174 may predefine a position or step between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 .

[0132] The grip plate 104 may be securable to the cartridge 102 using at least one recess 174 of the plurality of recesses 174. Accordingly, the grip plate 104 may include a protrusion 176. The protrusion 176 may be disposed on the grip plate 104 between the grip plate 104 and the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. Each recess 174 of the plurality of recesses 174 may be configured to receive the protrusion 176 of the grip plate 104.

[0133] The grip plate 104 may be movable between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 along the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102 by sliding the grip plate 104 along the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 over a predetermined step defined by the plurality of recesses 174. The protrusion 176 of the grip plate 104 may not be received by one of the plurality of recesses 174 as the grip plate 104 moves along the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The protrusion 176 of the grip plate 104 may be received by one of the plurality of recesses 174 as the grip plate 104 moves over the recess 174.

[0134] The grip plate 104 may be securable to the cartridge 102 at any predetermined step between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. The protrusion 176 of the grip plate 104 may be received by one of the plurality of recesses 174 when the grip plate 104 is secured to the one of the plurality of recesses 174.

[0135] 8A illustrates a deformable grip plate 104 according to one embodiment. The grip plate 104 may include two oppositely disposed handles 156. The grip plate may further include a V-shaped gap 180 between the two oppositely disposed handles 156. The V-shaped gap 180 may increase or decrease when the two oppositely disposed handles 156 are pushed or pulled.

[0136] 8B shows a cross-sectional view of the deformable grip plate 104 of FIG. 8A. The deformable grip plate 104 can further include at least one hook 184, particularly two oppositely disposed hooks 184. The at least one hook 184 can be disposed on an inner surface of the grip plate 104. The at least one hook 184 can extend from the inner surface of the grip plate 104 in a direction toward the V-shaped gap 180. The at least one hook 184 can move toward or away from the V-shaped gap 180 when the two oppositely disposed handles 156 are pulled or pushed.

[0137] FIG. 8C shows a side view of the dispensing device 100 including the deformable grip plate 104 of FIG. 8A. The dispensing device 100 may further include a cartridge 102, a piston 108, and a plunger 106. The plunger 106 may be disposed at an end of the piston 108, and the other end of the piston 108 may be inserted into the cartridge 102. The cartridge 102 may include a plurality of cavities 182 arranged parallel to one another and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. At least one hook 184 (shown in FIG. 8D) may engage with at least one of the plurality of cavities 182 when the grip plate 104 is undeformed to secure the grip plate 104 to the cartridge 102.

[0138] 8D shows a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device 100 of FIG. 8C. The grip plate 104 may be movable back and forth along the axial direction of the cartridge 102, particularly along the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102, when the grip plate 104 is in a deformed state, and may be fixable to the cartridge 102 when the grip plate 104 is in an undeformed state. Two oppositely disposed hooks 184 may extend from an inner surface of the grip plate 104 toward the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A. The inner surface of the grip plate 104 may face the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102, particularly, the inner surface of the grip plate 104 may contact the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 when the grip plate 104 is moving on the cartridge 102 along the longitudinal axis A.

[0139] The grip plate 104 may be movable in a direction along the longitudinal axis A from a first position at the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 to a second position at the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 by pushing the two oppositely disposed handles 156 in a direction along the longitudinal axis A from a first position at the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 to a second position at the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. Thus, the two oppositely disposed hooks 184 may be moved away from the V-shaped gap 180 such that the two hooks 184 do not engage with at least one of the plurality of cavities 182 (see FIG. 8C ).

[0140] The grip plate 104 may be securable in the second position on the cartridge 102 by, for example, stopping the pushing of the two oppositely disposed handles 156 by releasing pressure on the two handles 156 and / or by pulling the two oppositely disposed handles 156 in a direction along the longitudinal axis A from the second position to the first position. Thus, the two oppositely disposed hooks 184 can move toward the V-shaped gap 180 such that the two hooks 184 can engage with at least one of the plurality of cavities 182.

[0141] FIG. 9A illustrates a grip plate 104 including two deformable cantilevers 186 according to one embodiment, and FIG. 9B illustrates a side view of the grip plate 104 of FIG. 9A. Each of the two deformable cantilevers 186 may be fixed to the grip plate 104 at one end of the respective deformable cantilever 186, and each of the deformable cantilevers 186 may include a hook 184 at the other end of the respective deformable cantilever 186. Each hook 184 may be disposed on an inner surface of the grip plate 104. Each cantilever 186 of the two deformable cantilevers 186 may be disposed between two oppositely disposed handles 156 of the grip plate 104.

[0142] FIG. 9C shows a side view of the dispensing device 100 including the grip plate 104 of FIG. 9A. The dispensing device 100 may further include a cartridge 102, a piston 108, and a plunger 106. The plunger 106 may be disposed at an end of the piston 108, and the other end of the piston 108 may be inserted into the cartridge 102. The cartridge 102 may include a plurality of notches 188 arranged parallel to one another and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. At least one deformable cantilever 186, and therefore the grip plate 104, may be movable in a first direction B along the axial direction of the cartridge 102. At least one deformable cantilever 186, and therefore the grip plate 104, may be fixable in a second direction C along the axial direction of the cartridge 102.

[0143] 9D shows a cross-sectional view of the dispensing apparatus 100 of FIG. 9C . The two oppositely disposed hooks 184 of the two oppositely disposed deformable cantilevers 186 may be configured to slide over at least one of the plurality of notches 188 when the grip plate 104 is moving in a first direction B. The two oppositely disposed hooks 184 of the two oppositely disposed deformable cantilevers 186 may be configured to engage with at least one of the plurality of notches 188 when the grip plate 104 is secured to the cartridge 102 in a second direction C. The two oppositely disposed hooks 184 may extend from an inner surface of the grip plate 104 toward the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102. The inner surface of the grip plate 104 may face the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102, and in particular, the inner surface of the grip plate 104 may contact the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 when the grip plate 104 moves along the longitudinal axis A on the cartridge 102.

[0144] The grip plate 104 may be movable in a direction along the longitudinal axis A from a first position to a second position on the cartridge 102 by pushing the grip plate 104, particularly the two oppositely arranged handles 156 (see FIG. 9C ), in a first direction B along the longitudinal axis A from the first position on the cartridge 102 to the second position on the cartridge 102. Thus, the two oppositely arranged hooks 184 may slide on a plurality of notches 188 arranged on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 between the first position and the second position, such that the two hooks 184 may not engage with at least one of the plurality of notches 188.

[0145] The grip plate 104 may be securable in a second position on the cartridge 102 by stopping the compression of the two oppositely disposed handles 156, e.g., by releasing pressure on the two handles 156, and / or by pulling the two oppositely disposed handles 156 in a second direction C, i.e., along the longitudinal axis A, from the second position to the first position. Thus, the two oppositely disposed hooks 184 can engage with at least one of the plurality of notches 188 in the second position.

[0146] FIG. 10A shows a side view of a grip plate 100 including a U-shaped channel 190 according to one embodiment. The U-shaped channel 190 may be disposed between two oppositely disposed handles 156 of the grip plate 104. The grip plate 104 may further include at least one pin 192, which may be disposed on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The U-shaped channel 190 may be configured to receive the at least one pin 192. The grip plate 104 may be rotatable about the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102. The rotation of the grip plate 104 may be controlled by the at least one pin 192 in the at least one U-shaped channel 190. It is understood that the grip plate 104 may include two oppositely disposed U-shaped channels 190, and each of the two oppositely disposed U-shaped channels 190 may be disposed between two handles 156 of the grip plate 104.

[0147] FIG. 10B shows a side view of the dispensing apparatus 100 including the grip plate 104 of FIG. 10A. The dispensing apparatus 100 may include a cartridge 102 including a first pair of oppositely disposed pins 192 and a second pair of oppositely disposed pins 192. The first pair of oppositely disposed pins 192 may be disposed at a first end 112 of the cartridge 102, and the second pair of oppositely disposed pins 192 may be disposed at a second end 114 of the cartridge 102. The grip plate 104 may be movable in a direction along the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102 from the first pair of oppositely disposed pins 192 to the second pair of oppositely disposed pins 192. The grip plate 104 may be lockable using the second pair of oppositely disposed pins 192. The grip plate 104 may be locked in a first position, as shown in FIG. 10B. Thus, the first pair of pins 192 are received by a pair of oppositely disposed U-shaped channels 190 in the grip plate 104. It will be appreciated that a first pin 192 disposed at the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and a second pin 192 disposed at the second end 114 of the cartridge may also be sufficient to secure the grip plate 104 to the cartridge 102 in either the first or second position using one of the U-shaped channels 190 in the grip plate 104.

[0148] 10C and 10D show perspective views of the dispensing device 100 of FIG. 10B. The grip plate 104 may further have two tubes 194. The tubes 194 may be configured to receive pins 192, and in particular, the pins 192 may be slidable through the tubes 194 from outside the U-shaped channel 190 into the U-shaped channel 190, or vice versa. A first of the two tubes 194 may be disposed at one end of the U-shaped channel 190. A second of the two tubes 194 (shown in FIG. 10D) may be disposed at the other end of the U-shaped channel 190.

[0149] To move the grip plate 104 from a first position defined by a first pair of pins 192 (or first pins 192) disposed at the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 to a second position defined by a second pair of pins 192 (or second pins 192) disposed at the second end 114 of the cartridge 102, the first pair of pins 192 (or first pins 192) can be guided through the U-shaped channel of the grip plate 104 from one side of the U-shaped channel 190 to the other side of the U-shaped channel 190 by rotating the grip plate 104 about the longitudinal axis A until the first pair of pins 192 (or first pins 192) can reach the other end of the U-shaped channel 190. The first pair of pins 192 (or first pins 192) may slide through the second tube 194 of the U-shaped channel 190. After sliding the first pins 192 through the U-shaped channels 190, the pins 192 are not positioned within the U-shaped channels 190, and the grip plate 104 is positioned between the first pair of pins 192 (or the first pins 192) and the second pair of pins 192 (or the second pins 192).

[0150] The grip plate 104 may be moved on the cartridge 102 from a first position toward a second position in a direction along the longitudinal axis A. A second pair of pins 192 (or second pin 192) disposed on the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 may be inserted into the first tube 194 and may slide through the first tube 194 into the U-shaped channel 190. Securing the grip plate 104 using the U-shaped channel 190 and at least one pin 192 may function like a bayonet lock.

[0151] FIG. 11A illustrates a grip plate 104 including a dividing bar 198, and FIG. 11B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the grip plate 104 of FIG. 11A according to one embodiment. The grip plate 104 may include a first plurality of dividing bars 198 arranged parallel to one another on an inner surface 196 of the grip plate 104 along a longitudinal axis A. The first plurality of dividing bars 198 may extend from the inner surface 196 of the grip plate 104 toward the longitudinal axis A. Each dividing bar 198 of the first plurality of dividing bars 198 may not be circumferentially closed and may not be located on the inner surface 196 of the grip plate 104. The first plurality of dividing bars 198 may be located between two oppositely disposed handles 156 of the grip plate 104.

[0152] 11C shows a top view, FIG. 11D shows a side view, and FIG. 11E shows a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device 100 including the grip plate 104 of FIG. 11A. The dispensing device 100 may further include a cartridge 102, a piston 108, and a plunger 106. The plunger 106 may be disposed at an end of the piston 108, and the other end of the piston 108 may be inserted into the cartridge 102. The cartridge 102 may include a second plurality of dividing bars 198 arranged parallel to one another on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 along the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102.

[0153] The grip plate 104 may be rotatably disposed between a first rotational position and a second rotational position on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. A first plurality of dividing bars 198 disposed on the inner surface 196 of the grip plate 104 may engage with a plurality of recesses 200 formed between the second plurality of dividing bars 198 when the grip plate 104 is in the second rotational position. The first plurality of dividing bars 198 disposed on the inner surface 196 of the grip plate 104 may not engage with the plurality of recesses 200 formed between the second plurality of dividing bars 198 when the grip plate 104 is in the first rotational position.

[0154] The grip plate 104 may be movable along a direction toward the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102 between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 when the grip plate 104 is in a first rotational position. The grip plate 104 may be fixable in a position between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 when the grip plate 104 is in a second rotational position.

[0155] 12A illustrates a grip plate 104 including an opening 213 according to one embodiment. The opening 213 may be disposed between two oppositely disposed handles 156 of the grip plate 104. The opening 213 may be configured to receive a cartridge 102 described herein. The grip plate 104 may further include a groove 214. The groove 214 may be disposed between the two oppositely disposed handles 156 of the grip plate 104. The groove 214 may begin on one side of the opening 213 and end on the other side of the opening 213. The groove 214 may be configured to receive at least a portion of a cartridge 102 described herein.

[0156] FIG. 12B shows a perspective view, FIG. 12C shows a side view, and FIG. 12D shows a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device 100 including the grip plate 104 of FIG. 12A. The dispensing device 100 may further include a cartridge 102, a piston 108, and a plunger 106. The plunger 106 may be disposed at an end of the piston 108, and the other end of the piston 108 may be inserted into the cartridge 102. The cartridge 102 may include two ridges 210, 212 disposed completely or partially circumferentially on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The two ridges 210, 212 may be disposed parallel to each other on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 along the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102. A groove 214 of the grip plate 104 may be configured to separately receive each of the two ridges 210, 212. The grip plate 104 may be configured to snap onto one of the ridges 210, 212, either the first ridge 210 located on the outer surface 116 of the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 or the second ridge 212 located on the outer surface 116 of the second end 114 of the cartridge 102.

[0157] The grip plate 104 may surround more than 50% of the circumference of the cartridge 102 when the grip plate 104 is snapped onto the first ridge 210 or the second ridge 212 on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102.

[0158] The grip plate 104 may be securable to the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 by snapping the grip plate 104 onto the first ridge 210 so that the groove 214 can receive the first ridge 210. The grip plate 104 may be movable between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102, or between the first ridge 210 and the second ridge 212, by removing the grip plate 104 from the first ridge 210 and snapping the grip plate 104 onto the second ridge 212. For example, by forcing the second ridge 212, located on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge, and in particular the cartridge 102, through the opening 213 in the grip plate 104 and into the groove 214 in the grip plate 104.

[0159] FIG. 13A illustrates a grip plate 104 including an open tube 215 according to one embodiment. The grip plate 104 of this embodiment may correspond to the grip plate of FIG. 12A . Accordingly, the grip plate may also include an opening 214, and the opening 213 may be disposed between the two oppositely disposed handles 156 of the grip plate 104. The opening 213 may be configured to receive a cartridge 102 as described herein. The grip plate 104 may further include a groove 214. The groove 214 may be disposed between the two oppositely disposed handles 156 of the grip plate 104. The groove 214 may begin on one side of the opening 213 and end on the other side of the opening 213. The groove 214 may be configured to receive at least a portion of a cartridge 102 as described herein. Additionally, the grip plate 104 of FIG. 13A may include an open tube 215. The open tube 215 may extend from the grip plate 104 in a direction perpendicular to a plane including the two handles 156 of the grip plate 104. One end of the open tube 215 may be attached to an edge 217 of the groove 214 on the grip plate 104, as shown in FIG. 13A . The second groove 216 may be disposed at the other end of the open tube 215. The first groove 214 and the second groove 216 may be disposed parallel to each other.

[0160] FIG. 13B shows a perspective view of a dispensing device 100 including the grip plate 104 of FIG. 13A. The dispensing device 100 may further include a cartridge 102, a piston 108, and a plunger 106. The plunger 106 may be disposed on an end of the piston 108, and the other end of the piston 108 may be inserted into the cartridge 102. The cartridge 102 may include two ridges 210, 212 disposed completely or partially circumferentially on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The two ridges 210, 212 may be disposed parallel to each other on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 along the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102. The first ridge 210 may be disposed on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 at the first end 112 of the cartridge 102. The second ridge 212 may be disposed on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 at the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. The first groove 214 of the grip plate 104 may be configured to separately receive each of the two ridges 210, 212. The second groove 216 of the grip plate 104 may be configured to separately receive each of the two ridges 210, 212. The first groove 214 and the second groove 216 may be configured to receive the corresponding first ridge 210 and the corresponding second ridge 212.

[0161] The grip plate 104, and in particular the open tube 215, may surround the cartridge 102 by more than 50% of the circumference of the cartridge 102 when the grip plate 104 or the open tube 215 is snapped onto the first ridge 210 and the second ridge 212 on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102.

[0162] The grip plate 104 can be secured to the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 by snapping the first groove 214 of the grip plate 104 onto the first ridge 210 and the second groove 216 of the grip plate 104 onto the second ridge 212, such that the first groove 214 can receive the first ridge 210 and the second groove 216 can receive the second ridge 212.

[0163] The grip plate 104 may be movable between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 by removing the first groove 214 of the grip plate from the first ridge 210 and the second groove 216 of the grip plate 104 from the second ridge 212, and rotating the grip plate 104 so that the first groove 214 of the grip plate 104 can receive the second ridge 212 and the second groove 216 of the grip plate 104 can receive the first ridge 210.

[0164] The grip plate 104 may be securable to the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 by snapping the first groove 214 of the grip plate 104 onto the second ridge 212 and the second groove 216 of the grip plate 104 onto the first ridge 210, such that the first groove 214 may receive the second ridge 212 and the second groove 216 may receive the first ridge 210.

[0165] FIG. 13C shows a further perspective view of the dispensing device 100 including the grip plate 104 of FIG. 13A. The dispensing device 100 may further include a cartridge 102, a piston 108, and a plunger 106. The plunger 106 may be disposed on an end of the piston 108, and the other end of the piston 108 may be inserted into the cartridge 102. The cartridge 102 may include one ridge 212 disposed completely or partially circumferentially on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The ridge 212 may be disposed on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 at the second end 114 of the cartridge 102. A first groove 214 of the grip plate 104 may be configured to receive the ridge 212. A second groove 216 of the grip plate 104 may be configured to receive the ridge 212.

[0166] The grip plate 104, and in particular the open tube 215, can surround the cartridge 102 by more than 50% of the circumference of the cartridge 102 when the grip plate 104 or the open tube 215 is snapped onto the ridge 212 on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102.

[0167] The grip plate 104 may be securable to the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 by snapping the second groove 216 of the grip plate 104 onto the raised portion 212 so that the second groove 216 receives the raised portion 212.

[0168] By removing the second groove 216 of the grip plate 104 from the protuberance 212 and rotating the grip plate 104 so that the first groove 214 of the grip plate 104 can accept the protuberance 212, the grip plate 104 can be made movable between the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 and the second end 114 of the cartridge 102.

[0169] The grip plate 104 may be securable to the second end 114 of the cartridge 102 by snapping the first groove 214 of the grip plate 104 onto the raised portion 212 so that the first groove 214 can receive the raised portion 212.

[0170] 14A-14C show perspective, side, and cross-sectional views of a dispensing device 100 including a deformable grip plate 104 disposed at one end of a first position 132 of an open tube 215, according to one embodiment. The grip plate 104 and / or the open tube 215 can include an opening 213, which can be disposed between two oppositely disposed handles 156 of the grip plate 104. The opening 213 can be configured to receive a cartridge 102 described herein. In particular, the open tube 215 can be configured to snap onto the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The open tube 215 can extend from the grip plate 104 at one end of the open tube 215 in a direction perpendicular to a plane including the two handles 156 of the grip plate 104.

[0171] The dispensing device 100 may further include a cartridge 102, a piston 108, and a plunger 106. The plunger 106 may be disposed on an end of the piston 108, and the other end of the piston 108 may be inserted into the cartridge 102. The cartridge 102 may include a rib 218 disposed completely or partially circumferentially at a first end 112 on an outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The grip plate 104, and in particular the open tube 215, may surround the cartridge 102 by more than 50% of the circumference of the cartridge 102 when the grip plate 104 or open tube 215 is snapped onto the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The grip plate 104 and the open tube 215 may be in a deformed state during snapping onto the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The grip plate 104 and the open tube 215 can remain on the cartridge 102 due to a frictional or clamping force between the cartridge 102 and the open tube 215 when the open tube 215 is snapped onto the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102. The grip plate 104 and the open tube 215 can be in an undeformed state when snapped onto the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102.

[0172] The grip plate 104 may be securable in the first position 132 of the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 by snapping the open tube 215 onto the outer surface 116 of the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 so that one end of the open tube 215 contacts the rib 218. The rib 218 may lock the grip plate 104 against axial movement along the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102 during dispensing of material due to a holding force between the contacting rib 218 and one end of the open tube 215.

[0173] 15A-15C show perspective, side, and cross-sectional views of the dispensing device 100 of FIGS. 14A-14C in the second position 134, according to one embodiment. The grip plate 104 may be securable in the second position 134 at the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 by snapping the open tube 215 onto the outer surface 116 of the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 such that the other end of the open tube 215, positioned opposite the one end of the open tube 215, contacts the rib 218. The rib 218 can lock the grip plate 104 against axial movement along the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 102 during dispensing of material due to a holding force between the contacting rib 218 and the other end of the open tube 215.

[0174] The grip plate 104 may be movable between the first position 132 and the second position 134 by removing the open tube 215 from the cartridge 102, rotating the open tube 215 180 degrees, and snapping the open tube 215 back onto the outer surface 116 of the first end 112 of the cartridge 102 so that the other end of the open tube 215 positioned opposite the grip plate 104 contacts the rib 218.

[0175] The present invention may be directed to optimized handling of a dispensing device 100, such as a syringe. Optimized ergonomic handling of the dispensing device 100 and leveraging strength to easily dispense material from the dispensing device 100 regardless of the fill level of the dispensing device 100 may be achieved with a movable and fixable grip plate 104 as described herein. The position of the grip plate 104 on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 may be adapted by sliding the grip plate 104 axially on the outer surface 116 of the cartridge 102 for optimal handling during different fill levels of the cartridge 102.

[0176] Furthermore, the movable and fixable grip plate 104 may allow the dispensing device 100 to be adapted to the needs of different users of the dispensing device 100, for example, allowing for easier use of the dispensing device 100 for women.

[0177] The idea of ​​forming the grip plate 104 on the handheld cartridge 102 movable to adapt the distance between the end of the plunger 106 and the grip plate 104 can improve the use of the dispensing device 100 depending on the size and strength of the hand. [Explanation of symbols]

[0178] 100 Dispensing Device 102 Cartridge 104 Grip Plate 106 Plunger 108 Piston 110 needles 112 cartridge first end 114 second end of cartridge 116 Exterior 122 Circular cross section 124 Oval cross section 126 D-shaped cross section 132 First position on cartridge 134 Second position on cartridge 140 Lip 142 Groove 150 Rock Rail 152 longitudinal recess 154 Nose 156 Handle 158 Bar 160 Tooth 162 Cam 170 Bulge 172 recess 174 depression 176 Protrusion 180 Gap 182 Cavity 184 Hook 186 Cantilever 188 Notch 190 channels 192 pins 194 tube 196 Inside 198 Divider Bar 200 depression 202 Internal thread 204 Male thread 210 Ridge 212 Ridge 213 Opening 214 Groove 215 Open pipe 216 Groove 217 Edge 218 Ribs A Longitudinal axis B. First direction C. Second Direction

Claims

1. A cartridge (102) for a dispensing device (100), comprising: a grip plate (104); The grip plate (104) is attached to the cartridge (102) so as to be at least axially movable, and is axially securable to the cartridge (102).

2. The cross section of the cartridge (102) perpendicular to the axial direction is circular, oval, or D-shaped. The cartridge (102) of claim 1.

3. the cartridge (102) comprises two containers arranged in parallel, the two containers having equal or unequal volumes and / or equal or unequal external cross-sectional areas; A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 or 2.

4. The cartridge (102) has a circular or oval outer shape. A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 3.

5. the grip plate (104) is unlockable to release a fixed distance between one end of the cartridge (102) and the grip plate (104); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The grip plate (104) includes at least two oppositely disposed handles (156). A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 5.

7. the at least two oppositely disposed handles (156) are square or circular; The cartridge (102) of claim 6.

8. The grip plate (104) is closed circumferentially and positioned on the cartridge (102). A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The grip plate (104) is movable forward and / or backward along the axial direction of the cartridge (102). A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The grip plate (104) is securable to the cartridge (102) using a lip (140). A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The lip (140) is attached to the grip plate (104), and the lip (140) is disposed between the grip plate (104) and the cartridge (102). The cartridge (102) of claim 10.

12. The lip (140) is beveled on at least one side. A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 10 or 11.

13. the grip plate (104) is continuously movable between a first end (112) of the cartridge (102) and a second end (114) of the cartridge (102), and the grip plate (104) is securable to the cartridge (102) at any position between the first end (112) of the cartridge (102) and the second end (114) of the cartridge (102) by clamping the lip (140) between the grip plate (104) and the cartridge (102); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 10 to 12.

14. the cartridge (102) further comprises a plurality of grooves (142) arranged parallel to one another and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A) on the outer surface (116) of the cartridge (102); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 10 to 13.

15. Each groove (142) of the plurality of grooves (142) is configured to receive the lip (140). The cartridge (102) of claim 14.

16. each groove (142) of the plurality of grooves (142) being fully or partially circumferentially disposed on the cartridge (102); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 14 or 15.

17. the grip plate (104) is movable along the longitudinal axis (A) of the cartridge (102) between the first end (112) of the cartridge (102) and the second end (114) of the cartridge (102) at predetermined intervals defined by the plurality of grooves (142), and the grip plate (104) is securable to the cartridge (102) at any predetermined interval between the first end (112) of the cartridge (102) and the second end (114) of the cartridge (102) by receiving the lip (140) through one of the plurality of grooves (142); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 14 to 16.

18. The grip plate (104) is securable to the cartridge (102) using a locking rail (150). A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 9.

19. the lock rail (150) comprises a longitudinal recess (152) in the outer surface (116) of the cartridge (102), the grip plate (104) comprises a nose (154), and the nose (154) is recessed in the lock rail (150); 19. The cartridge (102) of claim 18.

20. The grip plate (104) is securable to the cartridge (102) using a locking device; A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 9.

21. the locking device comprises teeth (160) arranged on the cartridge (102) and one or more cams (162) arranged on the grip plate (104), and when the grip plate (104) is locked to the cartridge (102), the teeth (160) and the one or more cams (162) mesh with each other; The cartridge (102) of claim 20.

22. the locking device includes a latch for locking the grip plate (104) to the cartridge (102) and unlocking the grip plate (104) from the cartridge (102); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 20 or 21.

23. The grip plate (104) is securable to the cartridge (102) using at least one bulge (170) or at least one recess (174). A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 9.

24. the at least one bulge (170) or the at least one recess (174) is fully or partially circumferentially disposed on the cartridge (102); 24. The cartridge (102) of claim 23.

25. The grip plate (104) is deformable. A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 9.

26. the grip plate (104) includes a V-shaped gap (180) between two oppositely disposed handles (156); 27. The cartridge (102) of claim 26.

27. When the grip plate (104) is in a deformed state, the grip plate (104) is movable forward and / or backward along the axial direction of the cartridge (102), and when the grip plate (104) is in a non-deformed state, the grip plate (104) is fixable to the cartridge (102). A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 25 or 26.

28. the cartridge (102) comprises a plurality of cavities (182) arranged parallel to one another and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A) on an outer surface (116) of the cartridge (102), and the grip plate (104) comprises at least one hook (184), the at least one hook (184) engaging with at least one of the plurality of cavities (182) when the grip plate (104) is not deformed to secure the grip plate (104) to the cartridge (102); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 25 to 27.

29. the grip plate (104) comprises at least one deformable cantilever (186); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 9.

30. the at least one deformable cantilever (186) is fixed to the grip plate (104) at one end of the at least one deformable cantilever (186), and the at least one deformable cantilever (186) comprises a hook (184) at the other end of the at least one deformable cantilever (186); 30. The cartridge (102) of claim 29.

31. The cartridge (102) has a plurality of notches (188) arranged parallel to one another and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A) on an outer surface (116) of the cartridge (102). A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 29 or 30.

32. the at least one deformable cantilever (186) is movable in a first direction (B) along the axial direction of the cartridge (102), and the hook (184) of the at least one deformable cantilever (186) is configured to slide over at least one of a plurality of notches (188); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 30 or 31.

33. the at least one deformable cantilever (186) is fixable in a second direction (C) along the axial direction of the cartridge (102), and the hook (184) of the at least one deformable cantilever (186) is configured to engage with at least one of a plurality of notches (188); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 30 to 32.

34. The grip plate (104) comprises at least one U-shaped channel (190). A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 9.

35. the cartridge (102) includes at least one pin (192) disposed on an outer surface (116) of the cartridge (102); 35. The cartridge (102) of claim 34.

36. the at least one U-shaped channel (190) is configured to receive at least one pin (192); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 34 or 35.

37. the grip plate (104) is rotatable about the longitudinal axis (A) of the cartridge (102), and rotation of the grip plate (104) is controlled by the at least one pin (192) in at least one channel (190); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 35 or 36.

38. the cartridge (102) comprises a first pair of oppositely disposed pins (192) and a second pair of oppositely disposed pins (192), the first pair of oppositely disposed pins (192) being located at a first end (112) of the cartridge (102) and the second pair of oppositely disposed pins (192) being located at a second end (114) of the cartridge (102), the grip plate (104) being movable from the first pair of oppositely disposed pins (192) to the second pair of oppositely disposed pins (192), and the grip plate (104) being lockable using the second pair of oppositely disposed pins (192); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 34 to 37.

39. the grip plate (104) is rotatably disposed between a first rotational position and a second rotational position on an outer surface (116) of the cartridge (102); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 9.

40. When the grip plate (104) is in the first rotational position, the grip plate (104) is movable along the longitudinal axis (A) of the cartridge (102) between a first end (112) of the cartridge (102) and a second end (114) of the cartridge (102), and when the grip plate (104) is in the second rotational position, the grip plate (104) is fixable in a position between the first end (112) of the cartridge (102) and the second end (114) of the cartridge (102).

40. The cartridge (102) of claim 39.

41. the grip plate (104) includes a first plurality of dividing bars (198) arranged parallel to one another on an inner surface (196) of the grip plate (104) along the longitudinal axis (A) of the cartridge (102); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 39 or 40.

42. the cartridge (102) comprises a second plurality of dividing bars (198) arranged parallel to one another on the outer surface (116) of the cartridge (102) along the longitudinal axis (A) of the cartridge (102); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 39 to 41.

43. When the grip plate (104) is in a second rotational position, a first plurality of dividing bars (198) engage with a plurality of recesses (200) formed between the second plurality of dividing bars (198).

43. The cartridge (102) of claim 42.

44. The grip plate (104) has an internal thread (202). A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 9.

45. The cartridge (102) has an external thread (204).

45. The cartridge (102) of claim 44.

46. The grip plate (104) is axially movable by threading the female thread (202) into the male thread (204).

46. ​​The cartridge (102) of claim 45.

47. The grip plate (104) is configured to snap onto a ridge (210) located on the outer surface (116) of the cartridge (102). A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 9.

48. when the grip plate (104) is snapped onto the ridges (210) on the outer surface (116) of the cartridge (102), the grip plate (104) surrounds the cartridge (102) by more than 50% of the circumference of the cartridge (102); 48. The cartridge (102) of claim 47.

49. the cartridge (102) comprises at least two ridges (210, 212) disposed completely or partially circumferentially on the outer surface (116) of the cartridge (102); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 47 or 48.

50. the grip plate (104) includes at least one groove (214) configured to receive at least one of the at least two ridges (210, 212); 50. The cartridge (102) of claim 49.

51. a first ridge (210) of the at least two ridges (210, 212) located at a first end (112) of the cartridge (102), and a second ridge (212) of the at least two ridges (210, 212) located at a second end (114) of the cartridge (102); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 49 or 50.

52. the grip plate (104) is securable to the first end (112) of the cartridge (102) or the second end (114) of the cartridge (102) by snapping the grip plate (104) onto the first ridge (210) or the second ridge (212) such that at least one groove (214) receives the first ridge (210) or the second ridge (212); 52. The cartridge (102) of claim 51.

53. the grip plate (104) is movable between the first end (112) of the cartridge (102) and the second end (114) of the cartridge (102) by removing the grip plate (104) from the first ridge (210) and snapping the grip plate (104) onto the second ridge (212); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 51 or 52.

54. the grip plate (104) includes a first groove (214) and a second groove (216) configured to receive a corresponding first ridge (210) of the at least two ridges (210, 212) and a corresponding second ridge (212) of the at least two ridges (210, 212); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 47 to 52.

55. the grip plate (104) is securable to the first end (112) of the cartridge (102) by snapping the first groove (214) of the grip plate (104) onto the first ridge (210) and the second groove (216) of the grip plate (104) onto the second ridge (212), such that the first groove (214) receives the first ridge (210) and the second groove (216) receives the second ridge (212); 55. The cartridge (102) of claim 54.

56. the grip plate (104) is movable between the first end (112) of the cartridge (102) and the second end (114) of the cartridge (102) by removing the first groove (214) of the grip plate (104) from the first ridge (210) and the second groove (216) of the grip plate (104) from the second ridge (212), and by rotating the grip plate (104) so ​​that the first groove (214) of the grip plate (104) receives the second ridge (212) and the second groove (216) of the grip plate (104) receives the first ridge (210); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 54 or 55.

57. the grip plate (104) is securable to the second end (114) of the cartridge (102) by snapping the first groove (214) of the grip plate (104) onto the second ridge (212) and the second groove (216) of the grip plate (104) onto the first ridge (210), such that the first groove (214) receives the second ridge (212) and the second groove (216) receives the first ridge (210); A cartridge (104) according to at least one of claims 54 to 56.

58. the grip plate (104) includes a first groove (214) and a second groove (216) configured to receive the protuberance (212), the protuberance (212) being disposed at the second end (114) of the cartridge (102), the first groove (214) being disposed at the first end of the grip plate (104), and the second groove (216) being disposed at the second end of the grip plate (104); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 47 or 48.

59. the grip plate (104) is securable to the first end (112) of the cartridge (102) by snapping the second groove (216) of the grip plate (104) onto the raised portion (212) so that the second groove (216) receives the raised portion (212); 59. The cartridge (102) of claim 58.

60. the grip plate (104) is movable between the first end (112) of the cartridge (102) and the second end (114) of the cartridge (102) by removing the second groove (216) of the grip plate (104) from the raised portion (212) and rotating the grip plate (104) so ​​that the first groove (214) of the grip plate receives the raised portion (212); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 58 or 59.

61. the grip plate (104) is securable to the second end (114) of the cartridge (102) by snapping the first groove (214) of the grip plate (104) onto the second raised portion (212) such that the first groove (214) receives the second raised portion (212); 61. A cartridge (104) according to at least one of claims 58 to 60.

62. The grip plate (104) is disposed at one end of an open tube (215). A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 9.

63. The open tube (215) is configured to snap onto the outer surface (116) of the cartridge (102).

63. The cartridge (102) of claim 62.

64. When the open tube (215) is snapped onto the outer surface (116) of the cartridge (102), the open tube (215) surrounds the cartridge (102) by more than 50% of its circumference. A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 62 or 63.

65. the cartridge (102) includes a rib (218) disposed completely or partially circumferentially at a first end (112) on an outer surface (116) of the cartridge (102); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 62 to 64.

66. the grip plate (104) is securable in a first position (132) on the first end (112) of the cartridge (102) by snapping the open tube (215) onto the outer surface (116) at the first end (112) of the cartridge (102) so that the one end of the open tube (215) contacts the rib (218); 66. A cartridge (102) according to claim 65.

67. the grip plate (104) is fixable at the second position (134) of the first end (112) of the cartridge (102) by snapping the open tube (215) onto the outer surface (116) at the first end (112) of the cartridge (102) so that the other end of the open tube (215) disposed opposite the one end of the open tube (215) contacts the rib (218); A cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 65 or 66.

68. The grip plate (104) is movable in predetermined steps.

68. A cartridge (102) according to at least one of the preceding claims.

69. The grip plate (104) is continuously movable on the cartridge (102). A cartridge (102) according to at least one of the preceding claims.

70. A method for adapting a distance between an end of a cartridge (102) and an actual position of a gripping plate (104), in particular a cartridge (102) according to at least one of claims 1 to 69, said method comprising the steps of: A method comprising the step of moving the grip plate (104) at least axially along the cartridge (102), in particular the grip plate (104) being axially securable to the cartridge (102).

71. and further comprising fixing the grip plate (104) to fix the distance between the end of the cartridge (102) and the axial position of the grip plate (104).

71. The method of claim 70.

72. - moving said grip plate (104) from a first position (132) to a second position (134); and fixing the grip plate (104) in the second position (134); the first position (132) is located at the first end (112) of the cartridge (102), and the second position (134) is located at the second end (114) of the cartridge (102), or the second position (134) is located between the first end (112) of the cartridge (102) and the second end (114) of the cartridge (102); 72. The method according to at least one of claims 70 or 71.

73. The fixing of the grip plate (104) is performed using a lip (140).

73. The method according to at least one of claims 70 to 72.

74. The fixation of the grip plate (104) is performed using a groove (142) configured to receive the lip (140); The groove (142) is disposed on the outer surface (116) of the cartridge (102).

74. The method of claim 73.

75. The fixing of the grip plate (104) is performed using a lock rail (150).

73. The method according to at least one of claims 70 to 72.

76. The fixing of the grip plate (104) is performed using a fixing device.

73. The method according to at least one of claims 70 to 72.

77. the fixing of the grip plate (104) is performed using teeth (160) arranged on the cartridge (102) and one or more cams (162) arranged on the grip plate (104), and when the grip plate (104) is fixed to the cartridge (102), the teeth (160) and the one or more cams (162) mesh with each other; 73. The method according to at least one of claims 70 to 72.

78. The fixing of the grip plate (104) is performed using a latch.

73. The method according to at least one of claims 70 to 72.

79. opening the latch to unlock the grip plate (104) from the cartridge (102) before moving the grip plate (104) at least axially along the cartridge (102); moving the grip plate (104) at least axially along the cartridge (102) and then closing the latch to secure the grip plate (104) to the cartridge (102); 79. The method of claim 78, further comprising:

80. The fixing of the grip plate (104) is performed using at least one bulge (170) or at least one depression (174).

73. The method according to at least one of claims 70 to 72.

81. The fixing of the grip plate (104) is performed using a deformable grip plate (104) in a non-deformed state.

73. The method according to at least one of claims 70 to 72.

82. The fixation of the grip plate (104) is performed using at least one deformable cantilever (186).

73. The method according to at least one of claims 70 to 72.

83. The fixation of the grip plate (104) is performed using at least one U-shaped channel (190).

73. The method according to at least one of claims 70 to 72.

84. The fixation of the grip plate (104) is performed using a plurality of split bars (198).

73. The method according to at least one of claims 70 to 72.

85. The fixation of the grip plate (104) is performed using an internal thread (202) and an external thread (204).

73. The method according to at least one of claims 70 to 72.

86. The fixation of the grip plate (104) is performed using at least one ridge (210, 212).

73. The method according to at least one of claims 70 to 72.

87. The fixing of the grip plate (104) is performed using open tubes (215) and ribs (218).

73. The method according to at least one of claims 70 to 72.

88. 70. A dispensing device (100) comprising a cartridge (102) according to any one of claims 1 to 69, a piston (108), and a plunger (106) assembly cooperating with said piston (108).

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