Applicator tip, storing component and dispensing system

Abstract

Applicator tip for a dispensing system, the applicator tip longitudinally extending between a front end and a rear end along a longitudinal extension axis, the rear end being open and the front end comprising a front wall transitioning into a side wall circumferentially surrounding the longitudinal extension axis, the applicator tip further comprising a connection member of a connecting means, the connection member being a protrusion elastically deflectable in radial direction with regard to the longitudinal axis and / or the connection member being a guide track comprising a portion essentially extending into a direction circumferentially surrounding the longitudinal axis. The invention also refers to a storing component, in particular a tank, for a dispensing system, the storing component configured to store a material and extending in a longitudinal direction defining a longitudinal axis, the storing component further comprising a connection member of a connecting means, the connection member being a guide track comprising a portion essentially extending into a direction circumferentially surrounding the longitudinal axis, in particular, the guide track (112) entirely extending in the circumferential direction, and / or the connection member being an elastically deflectable protrusion. The present disclosure also refers to a dispensing system comprising an applicator tip and a storing component.

Description

[0001] Applicator Tip, Storing Component and Dispensing System

[0002] The present disclosure generally refers to an applicator tip for a dispensing system, a storing component for a dispensing system and a dispensing system.

[0003] Such kind of applicator tip is well known in the art and may be used for instance in a dispensing system to conduct a material to an area of application. As such, the applicator tip comprises a discharge device, such as for example a cannula or a mixer, that is connectable to a storing component of the dispensing system for discharge operation. The storing component may be in particular a tank storing the material as well as a housing configured to retain said tank or a shielding configured to at least partially receive said housing.

[0004] Furthermore, in such a dispensing system it is desirable that the applicator tip attached to the storing component can be rotated about the storing component as much as possible. Such kind of free rotational movement is of particular interest, if the applicator tip comprises a bent cannula. The cannula can then be rotated in a desired position for application of a material. Yet a dispense activator operable by a user of the dispensing system for discharging a material remains in a position which is comfortable for the user.

[0005] In order to ensure the integrity of the connection, it is desirable that the applicator tip is well aligned with regard to the storing component, such that the applicator tip seats well on the storing component after assembly. Furthermore, it is desirable that the applicator tip securely remains in a chosen rotational position.

[0006] It is therefore an object of the invention to enable an applicator tip attached to a storing component to be rotated over a large distance. It is a further object of the invention to provide a precisely connectable applicator tip. These objects are satisfied by the subject matter of the independent claims.

[0007] The invention is based on the idea that in a dispensing system comprising an applicator tip connected to a storing component, the applicator tip can be rotated over a large distance, if at least one of the applicator tip and the storing component comprises a connection member being a guide track comprising a portion essentially extending into a direction circumferentially surrounding the longitudinal axis. In this regard it is to be understood that the corresponding other one of the applicator tip and the storing component is preferably configured in a corresponding manner such that the corresponding other one of the applicator tip and the storing component comprises a protrusion configured to be guided in the guide track of the storing component or the applicator tip in an assembled state of the dispensing system.

[0008] Further advantages and embodiments become apparent from the dependent claims, the description and the accompanying drawings.

[0009] Preferably, the protrusion is a radially inwardly projecting protrusion, in particular the protrusion projecting radially inwardly from an inner side of a side wall of the applicator tip. The protrusion may at least partially extend in circumferential direction. A partial circumferential extension of the protrusion allows for an easy rotation of the applicator tip attached to the storing component, as the contact area between the protrusion and the guide track is rather small.

[0010] Alternatively, the protrusion may entirely extend in circumferential direction. In other words, the protrusion forms a ring like, in particular a closed ring like, structure. Such a configuration allows for a secure connection between the applicator tip and the storing component, in particular as the ring like protrusion is completely in contact with the guide track. Furthermore, a chosen rotational position of the applicator tip relative to the storing component is securely retained, in particular due to the large contact area between the ring like protrusion and the guide track, in particular if the protrusion and the guide track are in interference fit with each other. In this connection, it is noted that the guide track entirely extends in circumferential direction.

[0011] The protrusion may also protrude radially outwardly from an outer side of the side wall. It is noted that the storing component may then comprise a guide track on its inner side to receive the radially outwardly projecting protrusion of the applicator tip.

[0012] Preferably, the portion of the guide track extending in circumferential direction at least partially extends in circumferential direction. Alternatively, the guide track may entirely extend in circumferential direction. This allows for a full rotational range of 360°. Furthermore, the guide track entirely extending in circumferential direction allows for receiving a protrusion only partially extending in the circumferential direction or entirely extending in the circumferential direction.

[0013] Advantageously, the applicator tip can be more precisely connected to a storing component of a dispensing system if the applicator tip comprises at least two axially extending guiding ribs formed on an inner side of the side wall, with at least one guiding rib of the at least two guiding ribs comprising a connection member of a connecting means. Additionally or alternatively, the connection member of the connecting means may be formed between two guiding ribs in circumferential direction of the side wall, in particular with the guiding ribs formed without any connection member.

[0014] In this regard, during assembly, the storing component is received between the guiding ribs and the axially extending guiding ribs assist to safely guide the applicator tip onto the storing component as the applicator tip is axially moved onto the storing component. In particular, the guiding ribs receiving the storing component therebetween prevent an unwanted tilting of the applicator tip with regard to the storing component and thus act as an alignment means in a manner like a tolerance sleeve or tolerance ring. This enables a precise connection of the applicator tip.

[0015] Furthermore, the guiding ribs act as visual markers, ensuring a precise alignment during assembly.

[0016] In an assembled state, the connection member formed on one of the guiding ribs interacts with a corresponding connection means formed on the storing component, thereby ensuring a safe connection of the applicator tip.

[0017] Preferably, the guiding ribs protrude radially inwardly from the inner side of the side wall.

[0018] At least one guiding rib may begin to axially extend from the rear end of the applicator tip, and in particular may end at an inner front end of the applicator tip or at least at an inner side of the front wall. Such kind of extension of the guiding rib allows for a guidance during assembly until the applicator tip is fully seated on the storing component.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the connection member is formed at a rear end section of the guiding rib. This allows for a secure attachment of the applicator tip to the storing component in an assembled state of the dispensing device.

[0020] In order to prevent unwanted tilting of the applicator tip during assembly, at least one further guiding rib may be arranged circumferentially off-set to the guiding rib comprising the connection member at an angular position ranging from 10 to 350°. Tilting of the applicator tip during assembly may be in particular reliably avoided if the guiding rib comprising the connection member and the at least one further guiding rib are arranged at at least substantially diametrically opposed sides of the inner side of the side wall. An arrangement of the guiding ribs in a diametrically opposed position corresponds to an off-set angle of 180° between the guiding rib comprising the connection member and the further guiding rib.

[0021] By means of example, a reliable tilting prevention may be also achieved with three guiding ribs respectively arranged at an off-set angle of at least approximately 120° between the guiding ribs or with four guiding ribs with an off-set angle of at least approximately 90° between the guiding ribs.

[0022] It is noted that the guiding rib comprising the connection member and the at least one further guiding rib either without a connection member or also comprising a connection member may be arranged at at least substantially at 90° to each other on the inner side of the side wall. Such a configuration allows for an easy connection of the applicator tip to the storing component as well as an easy detachment therefrom.

[0023] The guiding ribs may define an inner space configured to receive the storing component, with inner surfaces of the guiding ribs forming a boundary of the inner space.

[0024] Preferably, the inner space has at least approximately the same dimension as an outer dimension of the storing component, such that the ribs abut an outer surface of the storing component in an assembled state of the dispensing device. This allows for a precise alignment of the applicator tip with regard to the storing component. According to another embodiment, the guiding ribs may define an inner space with a dimension that is slightly smaller than the outer dimension of the storing component, thus facilitating an interference fit connection of the applicator tip to the storing component in an assembled state of the dispensing device.

[0025] The respective inner surfaces of the guiding ribs facing the inner space may have a shape that is complementary to a shape of the outer surface of the storing component. This allows for a good contact between the applicator tip and the storing component.

[0026] In order to discharge material, the front wall may comprise a passage extending therethrough. Preferably, the passage is formed in a stub axially extending from the front wall in direction towards the rear end of the applicator tip. The stub may be at least partially received in an outlet opening of the tank in a fully assembled state to allow for discharge action.

[0027] The passage in the stub may further act as a support for a discharge device, in particular a cannula, such as for example a bent or bendable cannula. However, the applicator tip may generally comprise a cannula, in particular a bent or bendable cannula, i.e. without being supported by said stub. It is to be understood that the cannula penetrates the front wall of the applicator tip.

[0028] However, the stub may also be closed such that the applicator tip functions as a closure cap when the applicator tip is connected to the tank and the stub is received in the tank’s outlet opening.

[0029] Guidance of the stub towards the tank’s outlet opening during assembly is facilitated if the applicator tip preferably comprises at least one axially extending positioning rib formed on the inner side of the side wall, the positioning rib circumferentially off-set with regard to the guiding ribs. In this regard, it is noted that the positioning ribs may be arranged to each other at the inner circumference of the side wall in a manner as described above with regard to the guiding ribs. In particular, one positioning rib may be arranged circumferentially off-set with regard to a further positioning rib at an angular position ranging from 10 to 350°. Preferably, one positioning rib is arranged between two neighboring guiding ribs in circumferential direction of the side wall.

[0030] Preferably, the positioning rib axially extends from the front wall towards the rear end of the applicator tip and an axial length of the positioning rib is shorter than an axial length of the guiding ribs. This reduces an effort required to move the applicator tip onto or from the storing component, as the positioning ribs get into contact with the storing component after the guiding ribs got into contact with the storing component.

[0031] Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, the axial length of the positioning ribs is the same or longer than an axial length of the stub. This enables good guidance of the stub towards the outlet opening of the tank during assembly and ensures proper alignment of the stub with the tank’s outlet opening in a fully assembled state

[0032] The positioning ribs may protrude radially inwardly from the inner side of the side wall.

[0033] It is noted that the positioning ribs may define an inner space configured to receive the storing component, with inner surfaces of the positioning ribs forming a boundary of the inner space. The inner space defined by the positioning ribs may have the same or different, in particular a smaller or larger, dimension as the dimension of the inner space defined by the guiding ribs. The respective inner surfaces of the positioning ribs facing the inner space may have a shape that is complementary to a shape of the outer surface of the storing component.

[0034] It is further noted that at least one of the positioning ribs may comprise a connection member similar to the connection member of the guiding rib.

[0035] The side wall of the applicator tip may comprise at least one radially inwardly bent portion and / or at least one radially outwardly bent portion. Preferably, inwardly bent portions and outwardly bent portions alternate in circumferential direction of the side wall, thereby forming a corrugated outer side wall.

[0036] Preferably, at least one guiding rib is formed by a radially inwardly bent portion of the side wall and / or at least one guiding rib is formed in a radially outwardly bent portion of the side wall. Likewise, at least one positioning rib may be formed by a radially inwardly bent portion of the side wall and / or at least one positioning rib may be formed in a radially outwardly bent portion of the side wall.

[0037] In this regard, if the side wall is radially elastically deflectable, as will be described in greater detail below, laterally squeezing the side wall of the applicator tip by applying a force onto the side wall, in particular onto the radially outwardly bent portions of the side wall, flexes the non-squeezed parts of the side wall radially outwardly. Preferably, the guiding rib comprising the connection member is flexed radially outwardly.

[0038] After the applicator tip is placed in its desired final position during assembly, releasing of the force urges the side wall back into its original shape, such that the guiding rib comprising the connection member also snaps back into its original position, thereby engaging the connection member of the applicator tip with the corresponding connection member of the storing component. In a corresponding manner, the applicator tip may be released from the storing component by squeezing the side wall of the applicator tip, which eventually disengages the connection member of the applicator tip from the corresponding connection member of the storing component by a radial outwardly deflection of the guiding rib comprising the connection member.

[0039] As such, the radially inwardly bent portion and / or the radially outwardly bent portion formed on the outer side of the side wall, in particular the corrugation of the side wall’s outer side, may form a gripping feature. The gripping feature allows for a twisting movement of the applicator tip by the user.

[0040] It is noted that a gripping feature enabling a twisting of the applicator tip may also be formed by at least one fin radially protruding from an outer surface of the side wall, in particular the at least one fin axially extending along the outer surface of the side wall.

[0041] However, it is also possible to form a gripping feature with a smooth outer surface of the side wall, for example if the outer surface of the side wall comprises a friction increasing material, such as a soft material.

[0042] The gripping feature may also be formed by at least one flattened portion of the side wall. Furthermore, the gripping feature may also be formed by a flattened portion of the side wall in combination with an arcuate portion of the side wall. In this regard, the radially outwardly bent portion of the side wall may correspond to the arcuate portion of the side wall.

[0043] As indicated above, the guiding rib comprising the connection member may be radially deflectable. In particular the guiding rib comprising the connection member may be spring elastically radially deflectable at least at a portion comprising the connection member.

[0044] Even further, the side wall may be at least in sections spring elastically radially deflectable, in particular the part of the side wall that comprises the guiding rib comprising the connection member.

[0045] Elastic deflection of the guiding rib and / or the side wall may be achieved for example by forming the applicator tip or at least the side wall of the applicator tip, in particular that part of the side wall having the guiding rib comprising the connecting member by, a spring elastic material, like an elastomeric material such as a rubber or silicone material.

[0046] However, a spring elastic behavior of the guiding rib and / or the side wall may also be obtained from a rigid material, like a thermosetting polymer, by choosing a wall thickness of the side wall in a manner that allows for a spring elastic deflection upon applying a predetermined force. The force may correspond to a typical force that can be applied by a user of the dispensing system. Such kind of typical force is for example a force that is used to squeeze the applicator tip using an index finger and a thumb.

[0047] A spring elastic deflection of the guiding rib comprising the connection member may also be achieved if the guiding rib comprising the connection member forms a spring arm, the connection member formed at the spring arm.

[0048] Such kind of spring arm may be formed by a spring elastic material or a rigid material. In this regard, it is noted that a material and / or a wall thickness may be considered rigid if a typical force applied by a user cannot or at least not noteworthy radially deflect the side wall - except for the spring arm - upon laterally squeezing the applicator tip, in particular using the thumb and the index finger. In a particular embodiment, the spring arm may be formed in that the guiding rib comprising the connection member is excavated at least in a section comprising the connection member, thereby forming a cavity between the section of the guiding rib comprising the connection member and the side wall. Such a configuration ensures the integrity of the side wall which may be desirable for example for applications requiring a high hygienic standard.

[0049] According to another embodiment, the spring arm may be formed in that the side wall comprises two axially extending slits, with one slit respectively formed on either side of the guiding rib comprising the connection member. Such a configuration allows for an easy production of the spring arm.

[0050] In this regard, the slits preferably start from the rear end of the applicator tip and axially extend in a direction towards the front end of the applicator tip. The slits may end at the front wall of the applicator tip.

[0051] It is noted that the slits do not necessarily need to entirely extend through the rear end of the applicator to form an elastically radially deflectable spring arm. It may be also sufficient if the side wall is perforated by slits not extending through the rear end of the applicator tip.

[0052] The connection member may be formed as a radially inwardly projecting protrusion or a guide track. It is to be understood that the connection member of the storing component may be formed in a corresponding other manner, i.e. as a guide track or protrusion, as will be described in the following.

[0053] The invention is also directed at a storing component, in particular a tank, for a dispensing system, the storing component configured to store a material and extending in a longitudinal direction defining a longitudinal axis, the storing component further comprising a connection member of a connecting means, the connection member being a guide track comprising a portion essentially extending into a direction circumferentially surrounding the longitudinal axis, in particular, the guide track entirely extending in the circumferential direction, and / or the connection member being an elastically deflectable protrusion.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the storing component comprises a guide track with only a portion extending in circumferential direction. In this connection, the portion of the guide track may at least partially extend in the circumferential direction. In a preferred embodiment, the portion completely extends in the circumferential direction, as for example in a closed loop like manner. This allows for a full 360° rotation of the applicator tip relative to the storing component if the applicator tip is attached thereto.

[0055] According to another embodiment, the guide track may comprise a first portion transitioning into a second portion, the first portion essentially extending into the longitudinal axis or being helically inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis and the portion essentially extending into the direction circumferentially surrounding the longitudinal axis forming the second portion.

[0056] In order to enable a large rotational range, a length of the second portion of the guide track in circumferential direction is longer than a length of the first portion of the guide track in axial direction.

[0057] Preferably, at least one detent is formed in the first portion of the guide track and / or in the second portion of the guide track and / or in a region in which the first portion transitions into the second portion. Hence, the applicator tip can be rotated over a rather large distance if the circumferentially extending portion of a guide track is separated from the axial or helical portion of the guide track by means of the detent. In this context, the detent hinders that a protrusion guided in the circumferentially extending portion may be accidentally rotated out of the circumferentially extending portion. Hence, the applicator tip can be safely rotated with regard to the tank without being detached.

[0058] In a dispensing system comprising such kind of storing component, the applicator tip may be rotatable about its extension axis, which is of particular interest, if the discharge device is bent. This enables the discharge device to be rotated in a desired position for application of a material. Yet a dispense activator operable by a user of the dispensing system for discharging a material remains in a position which is comfortable for the user.

[0059] After the applicator tip is rotated in the desired position it is preferred that the applicator tip remains in that position. This may be achieved for example by the interference fit between the storing component and the guiding ribs and / or the positioning ribs of the applicator tip, as described above. It is further noted that the storing component may also comprise at least one interference means configured to interact with the applicator tip.

[0060] In the guide track, a stopping member is preferably arranged at an end of the second portion of the guide track.

[0061] The stopping member may separate the end of the second portion from the first portion of the guide track.

[0062] According to a preferred embodiment, the part of the stopping member facing the first portion of the guide track may lie flush with the first portion of the guide track. However, according to another preferred embodiment, no stopping member is formed in the portion of the guide track extending in circumferential direction. This enables a full rotational range of 360° of the applicator tip.

[0063] Preferably, the detent is formed in an end part of the first portion of the guide track transitioning into the second portion of the guide track. Such kind of detent prevents unwanted detachment of the applicator tip, in particular if the portion of the guide track extending in circumferential direction has no stopping member.

[0064] The detent may lie flush with the second portion of the guide track.

[0065] In order to allow the applicator tip to be rotated over a large rotational range with regard to the storing component, a rotational angle of the second portion of the guide track may be at least 330°, preferably at least 350° and ideally 360°, when the detent is arranged in the first portion of the guide track and the stopping member is arranged in the second portion of the guide track.

[0066] According to another embodiment, the detent may be formed in the beginning part of the second portion transitioning into the first portion of the guide track. A rotational angle of the second portion of the guide track may then be at least 270°, preferably at least 280° and more preferably at least 300°, when the detent and the stopping member are arranged in the second portion of the guide track.

[0067] According to yet another embodiment, the guide track may be also formed without any detent. A rotational angle of the second portion of the guide track is then at least 330°, preferably at least 350° and ideally 360°, when the guide track is formed without any detent and the stopping member is arranged in the second portion. Generally, the width of the first portion of the guide track as seen in the circumferential direction may be larger than a width of the second portion of the guide track as seen in the longitudinal direction.

[0068] Correspondingly, the protrusion, in particular of the applicator tip, may have a width that corresponds to the width of the first portion of the guide track and a height that corresponds to the width of the second portion of the guide track.

[0069] The protrusion may be elastically deflectable in radial direction with regard to the longitudinal axis.

[0070] As mentioned above, the applicator tip may comprise a cannula, in particular wherein the cannula is bent or bendable.

[0071] The connecting means preferably allows for single-hand operation. This may be achieved for example by means of said gripping means formed at the applicator tip.

[0072] The storing component and / or the applicator tip may comprise at least one interference means, in particular creating an interference fit when the storing component and the applicator tip are fully assembled. Such an interference means may be formed for example by the guiding ribs and / or the positioning ribs.

[0073] It is noted that the guide track and / or the protrusion formed at the applicator tip can be configured in a corresponding manner as described herein with reference to the storing component. Likewise, the protrusion and / or the guide track may be configured in a corresponding manner as described herein with reference to the applicator tip.

[0074] It is further noted that the guide track may be formed as a groove. The invention is also directed at a dispensing system. The dispensing system comprises a storing component, in particular as described in the forgoing, the storing component preferably being a tank, the storing component configured to store a material and extending in a longitudinal direction defining a longitudinal axis, and an applicator tip, in particular as described in the forgoing. The applicator tip is connectable directly to the storing component by a connecting means, in particular a bayonet type and / or a form-fit, in particular an interference-fit, type connecting means.

[0075] The connecting means comprises a first connection member being a guide track either formed on the storing component or the applicator tip and a second connection member being a protrusion formed on the corresponding other one of the applicator tip and the storing component, the protrusion being guided by the guide track upon attachment of the applicator tip to the storing component.

[0076] In the following, exemplary embodiments and functions of the present disclosure are described herein in conjunction with the drawings, showing schematically:

[0077] Fig. 1 a perspective explosion view of a multi-use dispenser comprising a shielding;

[0078] Fig. 2 a perspective explosion detail of the multi-use dispenser of Fig. 1 ;

[0079] Fig. 3 a cross-sectional side view of an assembled multi-use dispenser without an applicator tip;

[0080] Fig. 4 a cross-sectional view of the assembled multi-use dispenser without shielding;

[0081] Fig. 5 a perspective detail of the multi-use dispenser;

[0082] Fig. 6 a perspective partial cross-sectional detail of the multi-use dispenser;

[0083] Fig. 7 a cross-sectional detail of the multi-use dispenser, with a clutch in a disengaged state; Fig. 8 the cross-sectional detail of Fig. 7, with the clutch in an engaged state;

[0084] Fig. 9a a perspective detail of a tank storable in the multi-use dispenser;

[0085] Fig. 9b a perspective detail of the clutch of Figs. 7 and 8;

[0086] Fig. 10 a perspective cross-sectional showing an interaction of the parts shown in Figs. 9a and 9b;

[0087] Fig. 11 a semi transparent view of yet another detail of the multi-use dispenser;

[0088] Fig. 12 a perspective view of an exemplary applicator tip of the multi-use dispenser;

[0089] Fig. 13a a perspective view of an outlet section of a tank engageable with the applicator tip as described herein;

[0090] Fig. 13b a perspective view of another embodiment of a tank engageable with an applicator tip as described herein;

[0091] Fig. 14 a perspective rear view of another exemplary applicator tip;

[0092] Fig. 15 a rear view of the applicator tip of Fig. 14;

[0093] Fig. 16 a side view of the applicator tip of Fig. 14;

[0094] Fig. 17 a perspective rear view of yet another exemplary applicator tip;

[0095] Fig. 18 a rear view of the applicator tip of Fig. 17;

[0096] Fig. 19 a side view of the applicator tip of Fig. 17;

[0097] Fig. 20 a perspective rear view of a further exemplary applicator tip;

[0098] Fig. 21 a rear view of the applicator tip of Fig. 20;

[0099] Fig. 22 a cross-sectional view along A-A depicted in Fig. 21 ;

[0100] Fig. 23 a perspective rear view of even a further exemplary applicator tip;

[0101] Fig. 24 a rear view of the applicator tip of Fig. 23;

[0102] Fig. 25 a side view of the applicator tip of Fig. 23;

[0103] Fig. 26 a perspective rear view of a further exemplary applicator tip;

[0104] Fig. 27 a rear view of the applicator tip of Fig. 26;

[0105] Fig. 28 a cross-sectional view along A-A depicted in Fig. 27;

[0106] Fig. 29 a perspective rear view of a further exemplary applicator tip; Fig. 30 a rear view of the applicator tip of Fig. 29;

[0107] Fig. 31 a cross-sectional view along A-A depicted in Fig. 30;

[0108] Fig. 32 a perspective rear view of a further exemplary applicator tip;

[0109] Fig. 33 a rear view of the applicator tip of Fig. 32;

[0110] Fig. 34 a cross-sectional view along A-A depicted in Fig. 33;

[0111] Fig. 35 a perspective view of a further exemplary applicator tip;

[0112] Fig. 36 a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the applicator tip of Fig. 35; and

[0113] Fig. 37 a cross-sectional view through a dispensing system exemplarily depicting a connection of the applicator configured in a manner as shown in Figs. 35 or 36.

[0114] In the following, a multi-use dispenser 10 and advantageous aspects thereof are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Statements made with regard to direction and use are made with reference to the drawing.

[0115] The multi-use dispenser 10 may also be referred to as dispensing device, dispensing system or shortly dispenser 10 and is typically applicable to dispense a material used in medical and dental applications. In particular, the material dispensable by the multi-use dispenser 10 may be for example at least one of 1 K materials, fluids, cremes, medical fluids, etching materials, adhesives, ointments, paints and the like.

[0116] As can be seen from Fig. 1 , the dispenser 10 comprises a housing 12. The housing 12 may be formed as a single piece or may comprise multiple parts.

[0117] The housing 12 is at least partly receivable inside a shielding 14 used as a protection against external influences, such as fluids, dust, dirt or the like. The shielding 14 as shown in Fig. 1 comprises a front part 14a and a rear part 14b connectable to the front part 14a. The front part 14a and the rear part 14b are connectable, for example by means of a snap-lock connection or a threaded joint. However, the shielding 14 may also be formed as a single piece.

[0118] Furthermore, the housing 12 is configured to at least partly receive a tank 16 therein.

[0119] The housing 12, the shielding 14 and the tank 16 each extend into a longitudinal direction defining a longitudinal axis L.

[0120] In order to avoid an undesired rotational movement of the tank 16 with regard to the housing 12 along the longitudinal axis L, at least one of the housing 12 and the tank 16 comprises a twist-lock means 13 as will be exemplarily described in more detail below with reference to Figs. 13a and 13b.

[0121] It is further noted that the housing 12, the shielding 14 and the tank 16 each form a storing component. In this regard, the tank 16 is a storing component for the material dispensable by the multi-use dispenser 10. The housing 12 is configured to at least partly receive the tank 16 and therefore forms a storing component for the tank 16. Furthermore, the shielding 14 is configured to at least partly receive the housing 12 and therefore forms a storing component for the tank 16.

[0122] It is also noted that the housing 12 acts as a storing component for the material dispensable by the multi-use dispenser 10 if the tank 16 is received in the housing 12. In a similar manner, the shielding 14 acts as a storing component for the material dispensable by the multi-use dispenser 10 if the housing 12 holding the tank 16 is received in the shielding 14.

[0123] The tank 16 is connectable to the housing 12 by a bayonet type connection mechanism (Fig. 2). For this purpose, the tank 16 comprises at its outer circumferential surface at least one protrusion 106 that, upon assembly, is guided in a L-shaped groove 1 18 formed on an inner wall of the housing 12. The L-shaped groove comprises an axial portion 1 18a extending in direction of the longitudinal axis L and a circumferential portion 1 18b extending in a circumferential direction of the inner wall of the housing 12.

[0124] In the present embodiment, the tank 16 comprises two protrusions 106 formed in a diametrically opposed manner on the outer circumferential surface of the tank 16. In this context, the housing 12 comprises two corresponding L-shaped grooves 1 18 present in an inner wall of the housing 12.

[0125] In order to safely retain the tank 16 inside the housing 12, when assembled, the tank 16 and the housing 12 comprise retaining means 120.

[0126] A first retaining means 120a is formed as a radially outwardly projecting protrusion at the outer circumferential surface of the tank 16, whereas a second retaining means 120b is formed as a radially inwardly projecting protrusion at the inner circumferential surface of the housing 12. Furthermore, in an entirely assembled state, the first retaining means 120a of the tank 16 rests in a pocket 122 formed on the inner circumferential surface of the housing 12.

[0127] As can be seen from Fig. 2, the first retaining means 120a is arranged axially adjacent to the protrusion 106 as seen in the longitudinal axis L. Correspondingly, the second retaining means 120b and the pocket 122 are arranged axially adjacent to the circumferential portion 1 18b of the L-shaped groove 1 18.

[0128] In order to connect the tank 16 to the housing 12, the tank 16 is axially inserted into the housing 12 such that the protrusion 106 is guided in the axial portion 1 18a of the groove 1 18. When the tank 16 is fully axially inserted, the tank 16 is then rotationally twisted, such that the protrusion 106 is guided in the circumferential portion 118b of the groove 1 18 (in Fig. 2 counter-clock wise). At the same time, the first retaining means 120a of the tank 16 passes by the second retaining means 120b of the housing 12 and ultimately comes at rest in the pocket 122, when the tank 16 is entirely connected to the housing 12. In this state, the retaining means 120a, 120b hinder a backwards rotation of the tank 16, thereby safely connecting the tank 16 to the housing 12. It is to be understood, that the tank 16 can be removed from the housing 12 by being moved in a manner opposite to the above described assembly procedure. It is also noted that hand strength of the user is sufficient to pass the first retaining means 120a by the second retaining means 120b.

[0129] The tank 16 is configured to store a material, such as the ones discussed above.

[0130] It is noted that, generally speaking, a front part refers to a portion of the dispenser 10 from which the material can be discharged, whereas a rear part refers to a portion opposite of the front part when viewed in direction of the longitudinal axis L. Accordingly, a dispensing direction points from the rear part towards the front part.

[0131] In order to apply the material dispensed by the dispenser 10, for example to a tooth of a patient, the dispenser 10 comprises an applicator tip 18.

[0132] The applicator tip 18 may be connectable to either one of the housing 12, the shielding 14 or the tank 16. In this context, in Fig. 1 the applicator tip 18 is connectable to the front part 14a of the shielding 14, whereas Fig. 4 shows an embodiment in which the applicator tip 18 is connected to the tank 16. An advantageous way to connect the applicator tip 18 will be described later with regard to Figs. 12 and 13a and 13b.

[0133] The applicator tip 18 serves as a dispending outlet of the dispenser 10.

[0134] The applicator tip 18 may further comprises a cannula 20. The cannula 20 allows for a more precise application of the material dispensed by the dispenser 10. The cannula 20 may be already bent or individually bendable as indicated in Fig. 1 or may be straight as shown in Fig. 4. It is to be noted that the applicator tip 18 may be also formed without a cannula if the material is to be dispensed over larger areas than within a tooth canal or the like.

[0135] Now turning to Figs. 3 and 5 further details of the dispenser 10 will be described with reference to the other drawings.

[0136] The dispenser 10 comprises a dispense activator 22 that is movable relative to the housing 12. Activation of the dispense activator 22 allows for dispensing a certain pre-defined amount of material from the dispenser 10.

[0137] As can be best seen from Fig. 5, the dispense activator 22 comprises a two-arm lever 24. The two-arm lever 24 extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis L and is pivotably supported by a fulcrum 24a to make the two-arm lever 24 pivotable about a pivot axis P. The pivot axis P is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L.

[0138] The fulcrum 24a may be formed at the inner wall of the housing 12 or, as shown in Fig. 5, on a support structure 26. The support structure 26 is receivable in the housing 12.

[0139] One arm 28 of the two-arm lever 24 is attached to a push button 30, whereas the other arm 32 of the two-arm lever 24 is configured to drive a drive nut 34 of a rotation mechanism 36. The arm 28 of the two-arm lever 24 attached to the push button 30 may also be referred to as a push arm 28 and the other arm 32 of the two- arm lever 24 engageable with the drive nut 34 may be referred to as a drive arm 32. In order to limit a travel of the two-arm lever 24, the dispenser 10 comprises a stopping element 27 that interacts with the drive arm 32 of the two-arm lever 24 and stops a travel of the two-arm lever 24, when the drive arm 32 comes at rest at the stopping element 27. The stopping element 27 ensures that the push arm 28 of the two-arm lever 24 does not collide with the tank 16 received in the housing 12, when the push button 30 is pushed radially inwardly. Generally speaking, the stopping element 27 limits a travel of the dispense activator 22 and therefore hinders a collision of the dispense activator 22 with the tank 16 received in the housing 12.

[0140] A snap dome 29 is attached to the stopping element 27 and provides an acoustical feedback, when the drive arm 32 of the two-arm lever 24 reaches the stopping element 27. The user then knows that the dispense activator 22 has been fully activated, such that the user can release the dispense activator 22 and activate the dispense activator 22 by pushing of the push button 30 of the dispense activator 22 again for further material discharge.

[0141] Furthermore, in order to ensure a secure and proper functioning of the push button 30, the push button 30 is supported on both longitudinal sides with an arm of a lever. In detail, the push button 30 is supported on one side by means of the push arm 28 of the two-arm lever 24 and on the opposite side by an arm of a single-arm lever (not shown). The two-arm lever 24 and the single-arm lever are pivotable about the same pivot axis P.

[0142] Furthermore, the two-arm lever 24 and the single-arm lever are arranged on opposite sides of the support structure 26. However, the two-arm lever 24 and the single-arm lever may also be arranged on opposite inner wall sections of the housing 12. As indicated above, the push arm 28 of the two-arm lever 24 interacts with the drive nut 34 of the rotation mechanism 36. For this purpose, the two-arm lever 24 comprises a cam (not shown) projection radially inwardly towards the drive nut 34 and interacting with ratchet teeth 38 formed on an outer circumferential surface of the drive nut 34.

[0143] Rotational movement of the drive nut 34 is achieved, when the push button 30 of the dispense activator 22 is pushed radially inwardly with respect to the longitudinal axis L (arrow B in Fig. 5), which results in a counter directed movement of the drive arm 32. During this movement of the drive arm 32 its cam engages with one of the ratchet teeth 38 of the drive nut 34, thereby rotating the drive nut 34 about the longitudinal axis L (arrow R in Fig. 5).

[0144] A spring 35 (Fig. 3) pushes the dispense activator 22 back into its initial position, such that the dispense activator 22 can be operated again to further rotate the drive nut 34.

[0145] In order to avoid an unwanted backwards rotational movement of the drive nut 34, the rotation mechanism 36 comprises a blocking element 40 interacting with the drive nut 34. The blocking element 40 is rotationally fixed and acts as a counter part for the drive nut 34. The blocking element 40 and the drive nut 34 together form a ratchet.

[0146] In particular, the drive nut 34 comprises further ratchet teeth 42 formed on an end face of the drive nut 34 interacting with corresponding ratchet teeth 44 formed on an end face of the blocking element 40.

[0147] As becomes apparent from Fig. 5, the blocking element 40 is connected to the support structure 26. However, the blocking element 40 and the support structure 26 may also be a single piece. That is, the blocking element 40 may be formed at the support structure 26.

[0148] During rotation of the drive nut 34, its ratchet teeth 42 pass by the ratchet teeth 44 of the blocking element 40. After rotational movement of the drive nut 34, engagement between the ratchet teeth 42 of the drive nut 34 and the ratchet teeth 44 of the blocking element 40 hinder a reverse rotational movement.

[0149] In order to ensure a safe engagement of the ratchet teeth 42, 44 of the drive nut 34 and the blocking element 40, the rotation mechanism 36 comprises a spring 46 that axially biases the drive nut 34 towards the blocking element 40 with regard to the longitudinal axis L. The spring 46 is compressed as the ratchet teeth 42 of the drive nut 34 pass by the ratchet teeth 44 of the blocking element 40 during rotation of the drive nut 34.

[0150] One end of the spring 46 bears against the housing 12, whereas the other end of the spring 46 bears against a washer 48 arranged between the spring 46 and the drive nut 34. The washer 46 ensures a safe rotational movement of the drive nut 34 during operation.

[0151] Furthermore, the drive nut 34 comprises an inner thread in threaded engagement with a threaded piston rod 50 of a dispensing mechanism 52. The threaded engagement between the drive nut 34 and the piston rod 50 allows for a transmission of the rotational movement of the drive nut 34 to a rotational movement of the piston rod 50.

[0152] The piston rod 50 further engages with a body nut 54 of the dispensing mechanism 52. For example, the piston rod 50 and the body nut 54 may be in threaded engagement. In this context, it is to be noted that the piston 50 may be double threaded, wherein one thread interacts with the drive nut 34 and the other thread interacts with the body nut 54. Preferably, the respective threads are configured in a counter running manner.

[0153] As will be described later, the body nut 54 is rotationally fixable by means of a clutch 56. In a rotationally fixed state, the body nut 54 enables a transformation of a rotational movement into a translational movement of the piston rod 50 in which the piston rod 50 moves in direction of the longitudinal axis L towards the front end of the dispenser 10.

[0154] In particular, a translational movement of the piston rod 50 brings the front end of the piston rod 50 into contact with a plunger 58 (Fig. 4) stored inside of the tank 16 when received in the housing 12. In particular, when the piston rod 50 contacts the plunger 58, activation of the dispense activator 22 results in a further translational movement of the piston rod 50, thereby pushing the plunger 58 towards a front end of the tank 16 ultimately resulting in a dispense operation. The plunger 58 is also referred to as piston 58.

[0155] In this regard, it is desirable that dispensing from the tank 16 is directly possible or at least after only a few operational clicks of the dispense activator 22 even if the tank 16 is installed or reinstalled that was partly emptied or originally only partly filled.

[0156] To achieve this, the dispenser 10 comprises a spring 60 that acts on the piston rod 50, with the spring force of the spring 60 being selected such that the piston rod 50 is urged in the dispensing direction towards the plunger 58 of the tank 16, thereby making the dispenser 10 directly ready to use after insertion of the tank 16.

[0157] In particular, the spring 60 acts with one end on the piston rod 50 by means of a transmitter element 62, whereas the other end of the spring 60 bears against the housing 12, in particular an inner end surface 64 of the housing 12 (see Figs. 4 and 7).

[0158] The transmitter element 62 comprises a cavity 66 configured to receive a reverse end of the piston rod 50, i.e. the end of the piston rod 50 that does not engage with the plunger 58. The cavity 66 has a conical shape that enhances the coupling between the piston rod 50 and the transmitter element 62.

[0159] Furthermore, the transmitter element 62 comprises a guidance structure 68. The guidance structure 68 is set back radially inwardly with respect to a collar 72 against which the spring 60 bears.

[0160] As can be seen from Figs. 4 and 6, the guidance structure 68 is surrounded by the spring 60 and prevents an unwanted tilting of the transmitter element 62, when the spring 60 is compressed or decompressed.

[0161] A rear end 70 of the guidance structure also serves as a stopper upon contact with the inner end surface 64 of the housing 12, thereby limiting a travel of the piston rod 50 towards the rear direction.

[0162] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 7, the guidance structure 68 has a cross-shaped cross-section. However, the guidance structure 68 may also have other cross-sectional shapes, for example a round cross section.

[0163] To allow the spring 60 to axially displace the piston rod 50, the dispenser 10 comprises said clutch 56 interacting with the body nut 54 such that upon disengagement of the clutch 56 the body nut 54 is allowed to freely rotate thereby enabling an easy axial displacement of the piston rod 50 by means of the spring force of the spring 60. In other words, the spring 60 pushes the piston rod 50 through the drive nut 34. However, when the clutch 56 is engaged, the body nut 54 is rotationally fixed. The piston rod 50 is then no longer axially displaceable by the spring 60. In fact, the engagement of the piston rod 50 with both of the rotationally fixed body nut 54 and the drive nut 34 prevents an axial displacement of the piston rod 50 by means of only the spring 60. Therefore, an unwanted discharge operation caused by only the spring 60 is avoided. Nevertheless, the piston rod 50 can still be axially displaced by means of the rotation mechanism 36 activated by the dispense activator 22.

[0164] It is noted that the clutch 56 is rotationally fixed. However, to still allow a dis- or engagement with the body nut 54, the clutch 56 is axially displaceable with regard to the longitudinal axis L.

[0165] For a rotational fixation as well as a guidance during axial displacement, the clutch 56 comprises guidance means 73 formed at its outer circumferential surface (see in particular Fig. 9b). The guidance means 73 are respectively guided in a longitudinally extending grooves 71 present in the support structure 26 (Fig. 5). The groove may be also formed on an inner surface of the housing 12.

[0166] In the present embodiments, the clutch 56 comprises two guidance means 73 arranged at the outer circumferential surface of the clutch 56 in a diametrically opposed manner. The clutch 56 may also comprise only one guidance means 73 or more than two guidance means 73, like three, four or more guidance means 73.

[0167] An engagement between the body nut 54 and the clutch 56 is achieved by engagement means 74 formed at the body nut 54 and corresponding engagement means 76 formed at the clutch 56. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 7, the engagement means 74 of the body nut 54 are formed as teeth 78 extending radially outwardly from a circumferential surface of the body nut 54.

[0168] In a corresponding manner, the engagement means 76 of the clutch 56 are formed as teeth 80 extending radially inwardly into a passage 82 extending through the clutch 56 and configured to receive the body nut 54. In particular, the passage 82 of the clutch 56 is dimensioned in such a manner that in an engaged state, the body nut 54 is at least partly received therein.

[0169] Furthermore, it is to be understood, that in the engaged state, the teeth 78 of the body nut 54 mesh with the teeth 80 of the clutch 56, thereby hindering rotational movement of the body nut 54.

[0170] It is noted, that an engagement between the clutch 56 and the body nut 54 is also possible with one tooth extending into the passage 82 of the clutch interacting with one cavity formed at the body nut 54. In a similar manner, the body nut 54 may comprise a radially outwardly extending tooth interacting with a cavity formed in the passage 82 of the clutch 56.

[0171] The body nut 54 and the clutch 56 can also be configured in the opposite manner, i.e. the body nut 54 may comprise a passage configured to at least partially receive the clutch 56 therein, when the clutch 56 is engaged. In this configuration, at least one tooth and / or at least one cavity is formed in the passage of the body nut 54 interacting with at least one corresponding cavity and / or tooth formed at the clutch 56, when the clutch 56 and the body nut 54 are engaged.

[0172] It is further noted that other designs of the engagement means 74, 76 are possible. For example, the engagement means 74, 76 could be formed as rough surfaces on respective end faces of the body nut 54 and the clutch 56, the respective end faces facing each other. Therefore, when the clutch 56 and the body nut 54 are engaged, frictional force between the engagement means 74, 76 is large enough to hinder a rotational movement of the body nut 54.

[0173] To ensure that a dispense operation is only possible by means of the dispensing mechanism 52, the clutch 56 is engaged by fully inserting the tank 16 into the housing 12.

[0174] This is achieved in the following manner. The tank 16 comprises at least one ramp feature 84 projecting away from a rear side of the tank 16. The ramp feature 84 comprises a ramp 86 helically inclined with regard to the longitudinal axis L. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 9a, the tank 16 comprises two such ramp features 84 arranged diametrically opposed at the rear side of the tank 16.

[0175] The clutch 56 also comprises at least one ramp feature 88 being complementary to the ramp feature 84 of the tank 16. In particular, the ramp feature 88 of the clutch 56 comprises a ramp 90 that is helically inclined with regard to the longitudinal axis L in a manner complementary to the ramp 86 of the tank 16.

[0176] The ramp feature 88 of the clutch 56 is formed on an end surface of the clutch 56 facing the tank 16. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 9b, the clutch 56 comprises two such ramp features 88 arranged diametrically opposed at the end surface of the clutch 56 facing the tank 16, when assembled.

[0177] Engagement of the clutch 56 is achieved by inserting the tank 16 into the housing 12 and rotationally twisting the tank 16 about the longitudinal axis L. During the twisting movement (arrow T in Fig. 10) of the tank 16, the ramp feature 84 of the tank 16 and the ramp feature 88 of the clutch 56 get into contact, such that, when the tank 16 is further twisted the ramp 86 of the tank 16 slides along the ramp 90 of the clutch 56, which ultimately results in an axial displacement of the clutch 56 and an engagement with the body nut 54 (arrow E in Fig. 10).

[0178] In the entirely assembled state, the outer most tips of the respective ramp features 84, 88 as seen in direction of the longitudinal axis L contact each other (see Fig. 10).

[0179] During engagement of the clutch 56, the clutch 56 is moved against a spring force of a spring 92 used to bias the clutch 56 away from the body nut 54 for disengagement.

[0180] In the embodiment shown in Figs. 6 to 8, the spring 92 is arranged between the blocking element 40 and a shoulder 94 formed at the clutch 56. However, the spring 92 may also bear against the inner wall of the housing 12 instead of the blocking element 40.

[0181] Furthermore, the spring 92 is arranged radially inwardly with respect to the guidance means 73 of the clutch 56 (see Figs. 7 and 8). This allows for the spring 92 to be securely held in place.

[0182] Engagement of the piston rod 50 with the plunger 58 of the tank 16 and dispense operation is achieved as follows.

[0183] The spring 60 pushes the piston rod 50 towards the front end of the dispenser, when the clutch 56 is disengaged and the body nut 54 is allowed to freely rotate. Upon insertion of the tank 16 into the housing 12, the piston rod 50 gets in contact with the plunger 58. Upon further insertion of the tank 16, the piston rod 50 is pushed into a direction opposite to the dispensing direction (towards the rear end of the dispenser 10), with the piston rod 50 still being in contact with the plunger 58. The spring 60 is compressed and the spring force of the spring 60 ensures that the piston rod 50 and the plunger 58 remain in contact. This contact is still maintained when the clutch 56 and the body nut 54 are engaged, thereby allowing for an immediate dispensing operation. However, as the frictional force between the body nut 54 and the piston rod 50 is larger than the spring force of the spring 60, dispensing operation is only achieved upon operation of the dispense activator 22.

[0184] Now referring to Fig. 11 , a further advantageous aspect related to keying or dedication of components of the dispenser 10 is described. Such kind of keying or dedication is desirable because the multi-use dispenser 10 may be used with various tanks 16 containing different materials, in particular different medications, adhesives, paints or the like. However, it needs to be ensured that the dosing is correctly set for each tank used.

[0185] Fig. 1 1 shows an exemplary dedication mechanism used to connect the correct tank 16 into the correct housing 12. However, the dedication mechanism described herewith is also applicable to any other part combination of the dispenser 10, including for example, but not limited to connections between the applicator tip 18 and / or the tank 16 and / or the housing 12 and / or the shielding 14.

[0186] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1 1 , the dedication mechanism is realized as first coding means 96 formed at an outer circumferential surface of the tank 16 and matching second coding means 98 formed on the inner wall of the housing 12, which in this case is the inner circumferential surface of the inner wall of the housing 12.

[0187] In the present embodiment, the first coding means 96 is formed by a number of protrusions and indentations of varying width, whereas the second coding means 98 is formed by corresponding number of indentations and protrusions with complementary width. Consequently, the tank 16 and the housing 12 can only be assembled if the first coding means 96 and the second coding means 98 match. In Fig. 11 the coding means 86, 98 are shown schematically as blocks.

[0188] The first and second coding means 96, 98 may also be realized in another way. By means of example, the first and second coding means 96, 98 could be realized by a typical magnetic pattern. It is to be understood that the magnetic pattern of the first and second coding means 96, 98 are complementary to each other.

[0189] As can be seen from Fig. 11 , the tank 16 as well as the housing 12 each comprise a set of two identical coding means 96, 98. Within a set of coding means, a first coding means is configured in a point symmetrical manner with regard to a second coding means of the same set of coding means.

[0190] It is to be noted that such kind of sets of coding means could be also used for the connection between the other parts of the dispenser 10.

[0191] In order to allow for versatile applications, the second coding means 98 present in the housing 12 may formed on a ring 100 fixedly connected to inner circumferential surface of the housing 12. Upon the use of a designated tool, the ring 100 may be removed from the housing 12 and may be replaced by another ring 100 comprising other coding means 98. The dispenser 10 may then be used with another tank 16 comprising matching coding means 96.

[0192] Furthermore, the ring 100 forms a part of a bayonet type connecting mechanism and for this reason comprises a groove 102 in the inner circumferential surface of the ring 100. The groove 102 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis L. That is, the groove 102 extends parallel to a passage surrounded by the ring 100, with the passage configured to receive the tank 16. The other part of the bayonet type connecting mechanism is formed by a circumferentially extending groove 108 and a notch 104, each formed in the inner circumferential surface of the housing 12. It is to be understood, that the circumferentially extending groove 108 and the notch 104 could be also formed in the ring 100, i.e. the entire bayonet type connecting mechanism is formed in the ring 100.

[0193] Assembly of the tank 16 in the housing 12 functions as follows.

[0194] If the first and second coding means 96, 98 match then a protrusion 106 formed on the outer circumferential surface of the tank 16 passes through the groove 102 of the ring (arrow I in Fig. 1 1 ). By twisting the tank 16, the protrusion 106 is guided in the channel 108 and ultimately comes at rest at the notch 104 in the inner surface of the housing 12. It is noted that the spring 92 axially biasing the clutch 56 to the front end also acts on the tank 16 via the respective ramp features 84, 88, thereby bringing the protrusion 106 of the tank 16 at rest at the notch 104 of the housing 12. In other words, the spring 92 supports in the assembly of tank 16 to the housing 12.

[0195] However, when the tank 16 is reversely twisted to remove the tank 16 from the housing 12, the spring 92 may also assist to eject the tank 16, when the protrusion 106 passes by the groove 102, thereby supporting the disassembly of the dispenser 10.

[0196] The protrusion 106 is preferably spring elastically deflectable in radial direction with respect to the longitudinal axis L. This allows for the protrusion 106 to snap fit into the notch 104 if the tank 16 is entirely inserted into the housing 12, thereby securely retaining the tank 16 in the housing 12. Now referring to Figs. 12 and 13a an advantageous connection mechanism for the connection of the applicator tip 18 to the tank 16 is described. In this regard, Fig. 13a shows a first embodiment of a tank 16.

[0197] It is to be understood that the way of connection of the applicator tip 18 to the tank 16 as described hereinafter is also applicable to a connection of the applicator tip 18 to the housing 12 or the shielding 14 if the connection means thereof is designed similar to one used with regard to the tank 16.

[0198] The applicator tip 18 is dome shaped and longitudinally extends between a front end 128 and a rear end 130 along a longitudinal extension axis L of the applicator tip 18. It is noted that the longitudinal extension axis L of the applicator tip 18 is preferably aligned at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the dispenser 10 in an assembled state of the dispenser 10.

[0199] The applicator tip 18 is open to its rear end 130 such that a front part of the tank 16 comprising an outlet opening can be received inside the applicator tip 18.

[0200] The front end 128 comprises a front wall 132 that transitions into a side wall 134. The side wall 134 circumferentially surrounds the extension axis L of the applicator tip 18.

[0201] As can be best seen from the side views depicted in Figs. 16, 19, 25 and the cross-sectional view shown in Fig. 22, front wall 132 forms a hollow truncated cone such that the front wall 132 is angled with regard to the longitudinal axis L of the applicator tip 18.

[0202] The side wall 134 is also angled with regard to the longitudinal axis L of the applicator tip 18, however, at a shallower angle than the front wall 132. In fact, the side wall 134 is nearly parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the applicator tip 18. In this regard it is noted that the side wall 134 may also be parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the applicator tip 18.

[0203] The applicator tip 18 comprises multiple splines 126 or guiding ribs 126 axially extending in direction of the extension axis L and radially inwardly protruding from an inner side of the side wall 134.

[0204] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 12, the applicator tip 18 comprises three guiding ribs 126 respectively circumferentially off-set to each other at an angle of about 120°. However, the number of the guiding ribs 126 and their angular positions may also be different to the example shown in Fig. 12. By means of example, the applicator tip 18 may comprise two guiding ribs 126 arranged to each other at an angle ranging between 10° to 350°. Preferably, such two guiding ribs 126 are arranged at at least substantially diametrically opposed sides of the inner side of the side wall 134, i.e. at an angular position corresponding to 180°.

[0205] By means of another example, four guiding ribs 126 may be arranged on the inner side of the side wall 134, that an angle between two neighbouring guiding ribs 126 at least substantially corresponds to 90° (see Figs. 15, 18, 21 and 24).

[0206] As can be seen from Figs. 12 and 13a and 13b, the applicator tip 18 comprises a protrusion 1 10 that upon connection to the tank 16 is guided in a guide track 1 12 formed on the outlet side or head part 162 of the tank 16. The protrusion 110 and the guide track 1 12 together form a bayonet type connecting means in Fig. 13a. In Fig. 13b, the protrusion 1 10 and the guide track 1 12 form a form-fit connecting means and depending on the size of the protrusion 1 10 relative to the guide track 1 12 an interference-fit connecting means. As can be further seen from Figs. 13a and 13b, the guide track 1 12 is formed as a groove. In this regard it is noted that the bayonet type connecting means is an exemplary connecting means, in which the protrusion 110 forms a first connection member and the guide track 1 12 forms a second connection member. The protrusion 1 10 and the guide track 1 12 may also together form a form fit connecting means. This may be achieved for example in that the protrusion 1 10 has width basically corresponding to width of the guide track 1 12. By forming the width of the protrusion 1 10 slightly larger than the width of the guide track 1 12, the protrusion 1 10 and the guide track 112 may also form an interference-fit connecting means.

[0207] The protrusion 1 10 is elastically deflectable in radial direction with regard to the longitudinal axis L.

[0208] It is to be noted that the protrusion may also be formed at the tank 16 and the guide track may be formed at the applicator tip 18.

[0209] It is further noted that the connection mechanism described herein with regard to the applicator tip 18 and the tank 16 is also applicable for a connection between the applicator tip 18 and the housing 12 and / or the shielding 14.

[0210] As can be seen from Fig. 13a, the guide track 1 12 comprises a first portion 1 12a that is helically inclined and comprises an extension component that extends into the longitudinal direction. Such kind of orientation of the first portion 112a forces the applicator tip 18 onto the tank 16, when attached, and pushes the applicator tip 18 of the tank 16, when detached.

[0211] A second portion 1 12b of the guide track 1 12 extends into a direction circumferentially surrounding the longitudinal axis L. The first portion 1 12a and the second portion 1 12b transition into each other. Furthermore, a detent 1 14 is formed in the guide track 1 12 that prevents unwanted detachment of the applicator tip 18 from the tank 16. However, upon applying a predefined force, the protrusion 1 10 can be moved over and past the detent 1 14. The force is a force that is typically applied by a user manually operating of the dispenser 10, i.e. the applicator tip 18 can be attached and detached by hand using a typical hand strength. Preferably, the applicator tip 18 can be attached to or detached from the tank 16 by single-hand operation.

[0212] In particular, the detent 1 14 hinders that the protrusion 1 10 guided in the circumferentially extending second portion 112b is moved towards the first portion 1 12a such that the applicator tip 18 is accidentally detached from the tank 16 during rotational movement of the applicator tip 18.

[0213] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 13a, the detent 1 14 is formed in the of the second portion 1 12b and defines a starting point of the second portion 1 12b. In particular, the detent 114 is formed in the second portion 112b, where the first portion 1 12a transitions into the second portion 112b.

[0214] Furthermore, the second portion 1 12b ends at a stopping member 1 16. The stopping member 1 16 separates the end of the second portion 1 12b from the first portion 112a of the guide track 1 12.

[0215] Furthermore, as becomes apparent from Fig. 13a, a length of the second portion 1 12b of the guide track 1 12 in circumferential direction is longer than a length of the first portion 1 12a of the guide track 1 12 in axial direction.

[0216] As can be seen from Fig. 13a the part of the stopping member 1 16 facing the first portion 1 12a lies flush with the first portion 1 12a and has the same inclination with regard to the longitudinal axis L like the first portion 112a. The detent 114 and the stopping member 116 define rotational angle of the second portion 112b of at least 270°, preferably of at least 280° and more preferably of at least 300°. That is, the applicator tip 18 can be rotated relative to the tank 16 by a rotational angle of at least 270°, preferably of at least 280° and more preferably of at least 300°. This is desirable if the applicator tip 18 comprises a bent cannula 20. The cannula 20 can then be rotated in a desired position for application of a material. Yet the dispense activator 22 remains in a position which is comfortable for the user.

[0217] It is noted that the guide track 112 may be also formed without said detent 114. The rotational angle of the second portion 112b of the guide track 112 is then at least 330°, preferably at least 350° and ideally 360°, when only the stopping member 116 is arranged in the second portion 112b. In this regard, a full rotational angle of 360° is possible if no stopping member 116 is formed in the second portion 112b of the guide track 112. It is also noted that the guide track 112 may comprise only the detent 114 formed in the first portion 112a and / or the second portion 112b without having any stopping member 116.

[0218] However, to keep the applicator tip 18 in a desired rotational position, at least one of the tank 16 and the applicator tip 18 may comprise at least one interference means 124.

[0219] The interference means 124 causes an interference fit between the tank 16 and the applicator tip 18, in particular when fully assembled.

[0220] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 12 the interference means 124 is formed by three splines 126 protruding radially inwardly from an inner surface of the applicator tip 18 and extending in axial direction with regard to the longitudinal axis L. The number of the splines 126 may vary, i.e. to be less than three or more than three, such as one spline 126, two splines 126, four splines 126 or five or more splines 126. An interference means 124 may also be provided on an outer circumferential surface of a portion of the tank 16 interacting with the applicator tip 18. In this case, the interference means 124 may be formed for example by portions radially protruding from the tank 16.

[0221] Additionally or alternatively, an interference fit can also be created by the interaction of the protrusion 110 with the second portion 1 12b of the guide track 1 12. This can be achieved for example if a width of the protrusion 1 10 as seen in the longitudinal axis L is slightly larger than a width of the second portion 122b of the guide track 1 12 as also seen in the longitudinal axis L.

[0222] In this context, as can be seen from Fig. 13a, the width of the first portion 1 12a as seen in the circumferential direction that is larger than a width of the second portion 112b as seen in the longitudinal direction L. To ensure safe guidance, the protrusion 1 10 may be sized as to basically correspond to the dimensions of the first and second portions 1 12a, 1 12b of the guide track 1 12.

[0223] According to another embodiment basically corresponding to the one just described, but not shown, the detent 114 is formed in the first portion 1 12a of the guide track 112 instead of the second portion 1 12b. In particular, in the end part of the first portion 1 12a that transitions into the second portion 1 12b. Furthermore, the detent 1 14 of this embodiment may lie flush with the second portion 112b.

[0224] Such kind of configuration allows for a rotational angle of nearly 360°, which is only limited by the circumferential dimension of the stopping member 1 16. Hence, the applicator tip 18 can be rotated to an even larger extent. According to still another embodiment not shown, the detent 114 may also be formed in that region in which the first portion 1 12a transitions into the second portion 112b. It is to be understood, that additionally at least one further detent 1 14 may be also formed in at least one of the first and second portions 1 12a, 1 12b.

[0225] Now turning to Fig. 13b, a further way of connecting the applicator tip 18 to the tank 16 is described with regard to a second embodiment of a tank 16. The tank 16 of the second embodiment basically corresponds to the tank 16 of the first embodiment shown in Fig. 13a.

[0226] In contrast to the tank 16 of the first embodiment, the tank 16 of the second embodiment does not comprise the helically extending first portion 1 12a. Instead, the guide track 112 merely comprises a portion that extends into the direction circumferentially surrounding the longitudinal axis L. In particular, the guide track 1 12 entirely extends in the circumferential direction, thus forming a closed loop guide track 1 12 allowing for a full 360° rotation of the applicator tip 18 attached to the tank 16. In this regard it is noted that no stopping member 1 16 is formed in the circumferentially extending guide track 1 12. However, the guide track 1 12 may also only partially extend in circumferential direction, thus having a limited rotational range.

[0227] In order to attach the applicator tip 18 to the tank 16 shown in Fig. 13b, the protrusion 110 formed at the applicator tip 18 is deflectable radially outwardly, such that the protrusion 1 10 is moved over a head part 162 of the tank 16 and finally snaps in to the guide track 1 12 to securely retain the applicator tip 18 at the tank 16.

[0228] Furthermore, in comparison to the tank 16 shown in Fig. 13a, the twist-lock means 13 is placed at another position. In detail, the twist-lock means 13 of the tank 16 shown in Fig. 13b is formed at an outer surface of a main body 164 of the tank 16. In contrast to that, the twist-lock means 13 of the tank 16 shown in Fig. 13a is formed at a shoulder 166 formed between the recessed head part 162 of the tank 16 and the main body 164 of the tank.

[0229] In either way, the respective twist-lock means 13 is formed as a protrusion and is configured to interact with a corresponding recess (not shown) formed on an inner side wall of the housing 12 or the shielding 14 to prevent unwanted twisting of the tank 16 relative to the housing 12 or the shielding 14, respectively. It is noted that the tank 16 may comprise a recess and the housing 12 or shielding 14 may comprise a protrusion to allow for twist-locking of the tank 16.

[0230] It is further noted that the twist-lock means 13 as described in combination with the tank 16 shown in Fig. 13a and 13b may be also used additionally or alternatively in combination with the corresponding other tank 16 shown in the respective other Fig. 13b and 13a. The same also applies to the guide track 112 shown in Fig. 13a and 13b.

[0231] In the following further embodiments of an applicator tip 18 will be described with reference to Figs. 14 to 36.

[0232] The applicator tips 18 shown in Figs. 14 to 34 basically correspond to the applicator tip 18 described in the foregoing, such that the foregoing description in general also applies to the applicator tips 18 described hereinafter.

[0233] The applicator tips 18 shown in Figs. 14 to 25, however, basically differ from the applicator tip 18 of Fig. 12 in that the protrusion 110 is formed at one of the guiding ribs 126, such that the protrusion 110 protrudes radially inwardly from this particular guiding rib 126.

[0234] It is noted that a guide track may be formed instead of the protrusion 110 on the guiding rib 126. The guide track may be configured in a similar manner as the guide track 112 described above. Such kind of guide track present at the applicator tip 18 may be formed for example by a guiding rib 126 having a large circumferential extension. However, the guide track may also be segmented and distributed on multiple guiding ribs 126. In particular, the circumferentially extending second portion of the guide track may be segmented and distributed on multiple guiding ribs 126, whereas the axially extending first portion of the guide track may be formed on only one guiding rib 126.

[0235] As can be best seen from the rear views depicted in Figs. 15, 18, 21 and 24, each of the applicator tips comprises four guiding ribs 126, with one of the four guiding ribs comprising said protrusion 1 10.

[0236] The four guiding ribs 126 are arranged to each other that an angle between two neighbouring guiding ribs 126 corresponds to at least substantially 90°.

[0237] In particular, the three further guiding ribs 126 without protrusion are arranged with regard to the guiding rib 126 comprising the protrusion 1 10 at angular positions of at least substantially 90°, 180° and 270°, respectively.

[0238] As already mentioned, the number of guiding ribs 126 may vary. However, from a point of tilting prevention it is preferred that the applicator tip 18 has at least one further guiding rib 126 in addition to the guiding rib 126 comprising the connection member.

[0239] As can be further seen from the rear views shown in Figs. 15, 18, 21 and 24, the guiding ribs 126 define an inner space in radial direction between themselves, the radial inner space being configured to receive the storing component, like the tank 16. The inner space is bound by inner surfaces 136 of the guiding ribs 126, respectively facing the inner space. As is shown in Figs. 15, 18, 21 and 24, the inner surfaces 136 of the guiding ribs 126 are arc-shaped to well align with a rounded outer surface of the tank 16 in an assembled state.

[0240] In order to allow the guiding ribs 126 to act as an interference means 124, the inner space defined by the guiding ribs 126 is slightly smaller than an outer dimension of the tank 16.

[0241] Such kind of interference connection of the applicator tip 18 to the tank 16 allows for maintaining a chosen rotational position of the applicator tip 18.

[0242] However, the guiding ribs 126 are not only used to hold the applicator 18 tip in a desired rotational position, but also help to align a stub 138 axially rearwardly extending from the front wall 132 with the outlet opening of the tank 16.

[0243] The stub 138 comprises a passage 140 extending through the front wall 132 and acts as an outlet passage of the applicator tip 18, as can be seen for example in Fig. 22.

[0244] The passage 140 of the stub 138 is configured to receive a cannula (not shown in Figs. 14 to 25) such that the stub 138 acts as a cannula socket.

[0245] The stub 138 is supported by three support structures 142 radially outwardly extending from the stub’s side surface and based on the inner side of the front wall 132.

[0246] A rear end of the stub 138 comprises rounded edges such that the stub 138 may repeatedly be inserted into the outlet opening of the tank 16 without deteriorating the outlet opening of the tank 16 or a valve formed in the outlet opening of the tank 16.

[0247] In order to further assist the guidance of the stub 138 towards the outlet opening of the tank 16, the applicator tip 18 may comprise at least one additional positioning rib 144 formed on the inner side of the side wall 134 (see Figs. 14, 15, 17 or 18).

[0248] Such positioning rib 144 like the guiding ribs 126 axially extend from the front wall 132 in a direction towards the rear end 130 of the applicator tip 18. However, an axial length of the positioning rib 144 is shorter than an axial length of the guiding ribs 126, as becomes apparent from Figs. 14 and 17. This ensures that, upon assembly, the positioning ribs 144 get into contact with the tank 16 after the guiding ribs 126, thereby reducing a force required to connect the applicator tip 18 to the tank 16.

[0249] However, the axial length of the positioning ribs 144 may be at least the same or longer than an axial length of the stub 138 to ensure good guidance thereof during attachment of the applicator tip 18.

[0250] The positioning ribs 144 have rounded edges at their respective rear ends which facilitates a movement of the applicator tip 18 onto the tank 16 during assembly.

[0251] In the embodiments shown in Figs. 14 to 19, the applicator tip 18 comprises four positioning ribs 144 circumferentially off-set with regard to the guiding ribs 126. In particular, the positioning ribs 144 are arranged between neighboring guiding ribs 126 in the circumferential direction of the side wall 134. Even further, the positioning ribs 144 are arranged about 45° off-set with regard to the guiding ribs 126. It is noted that the number and position of the positioning ribs 144 may vary. For example, the applicator tip 18 may comprise only one, two, three or more than four positioning ribs 144. Still referring to the embodiments shown in Figs. 14 to 19, it can be seen that the positioning ribs 144 are formed either by radially outwardly bent portions 146 of the side wall 134 (Fig. 15) or at radially inwardly bent portions 148 of the side wall 134 (Fig. 18).

[0252] The guiding ribs 126 are only formed by radially inwardly bent portions 148 of the side wall 134. The guiding ribs 126 may however also be formed at radially outwardly bent portions of the side wall 134 (not shown). It is further noted that some of the guiding ribs 126 may be formed by radially inwardly bent portions 148 of the side wall 134 and some other guiding ribs 126 may be formed at radially outwardly bent portions 146 of the side wall 134.

[0253] The bent portions 146, 148 of the side wall 134 result in a corrugation of the outer side of the side wall 134, thereby forming a gripping feature 150.

[0254] It is noted that in the embodiments shown in Figs. 20 to 25, like in the applicator tip shown in Fig. 12, a gripping feature 150 is formed by multiple radially protruding fins 152 axially extending along an outer surface of the side wall 134.

[0255] Now turning back to the particular design of the guiding rib 126 comprising the protrusion 1 10.

[0256] In order to allow the protrusion 1 10 formed at the guiding rib 126 to pass by the detent 1 14 present in the guide track 112, the guiding rib 126 comprising the protrusion 1 10 is spring elastically radially deflectable at least at that portion comprising the protrusion 1 10. This may be achieved for example by using a side wall 134 that is spring elastically radially deflectable, at least in that part of the side wall 134 which has the guiding rib 126 comprising the protrusion 1 10.

[0257] Such an elastically deflectable side wall 134 may be formed for example by using a spring elastic material. However, an elastically deflectable side wall 134 can be also obtained by using a rigid material and choosing its wall thickness such that the side wall 134 can be elastically deflected upon applying a predetermined force, such as a typical force that can be applied by a user of the dispensing system, in particular by using the thumb and the index finger to squeeze the applicator tip 18.

[0258] Such an approach, i.e. forming the side wall 134 of a spring elastic material and / or choosing the wall thickness of the side wall 134 such that the side wall 134 can be radially elastically deflected, is used in the applicator tips 18 shown in the drawings 14 to 16 and 17 to 19.

[0259] However, a spring elastically radially deflection of the protrusion 1 10 at the guiding rib 126 is also achieved by using a rigid material in that the guiding rib 126 comprising the protrusion 110 forms a radially elastically deflectable spring arm 154 with the protrusion 110 formed at the spring arm 154.

[0260] According to an embodiment shown in Figs. 20 to 22 such a spring arm 154 is formed in that the guiding rib 126 comprising the protrusion 1 10 is axially partly excavated in a section comprising the protrusion 1 10, thereby forming a cavity 156 axially and radially extending between a rear end section 158 of the guiding rib 126 comprising the protrusion 110 and the side wall 134 (see Fig. 22). In this regard, the protrusion 110 is formed at a rear end section 158 of the spring arm 154.

[0261] During assembly or disassembly, the protrusion 1 10 at the spring arm 154 can be deflected radially outwardly into the cavity 156. Another way of forming a spring arm 154 is shown in Figs. 23 to 25.

[0262] Here, the side wall 134 is slitted by two axially extending slits 160 such that one slit 160 is formed on either side of the guiding rib 126 comprising the protrusion 1 10. The spring arm 154 thus formed can be deflected radially outwardly with regard to the remaining side wall 134 during assembly or disassembly.

[0263] As can be seen from Fig. 23, the slits 160 axially extend from the rear end 130 of the applicator tip 18 and extend towards the applicator tip’s front wall 132.

[0264] Like in the embodiment shown in Figs. 20 to 22, the protrusion 110 is formed at the rear end section 158 of the spring arm 154.

[0265] The spring arm 154 configuration of the embodiments shown in Figs. 20 to 25 renders the need for positioning ribs 144 redundant, because, during assembly or disassembly, the spring force exerted by the spring arm 154 urges the spring arm 154 and therefore the guiding rib 126 as well as its protrusion 1 10 towards the tank 16, such that at least the protrusion 1 10 is in contact with the tank 16. The guiding rib 126 formed as a spring arm 154 together with a further guiding rib 126 therefore allow for a proper alignment of the applicator tip 18 with the tank 16.

[0266] It is noted with regard to the embodiments shown in Figs. 20 to 25 that the remaining parts of the applicator tip 18 except for the spring arm 154 may be so rigid such that a force applied by the user cannot or at least not noteworthy deflect these remaining parts.

[0267] Now turning to Figs. 26 to 28 a further embodiment of an applicator tip 18 will be described. The applicator tip 18 of Figs. 26 to 28 basically corresponds to the applicator tip 18 shown in Figs. 20 to 22.

[0268] However, in the applicator tip 18 of Figs. 26 to 28 the gripping means 150 is not formed by multiple radially protruding fins 152 axially extending along an outer surface of the side wall 134. Instead, the gripping means 150 is formed by two flattened portions 168 and two arcuate portions 170 of the side wall 134, in particular on the outer side of the side wall 134. In this regard, preferably, the two flattened portions 168 and the two arcuate portions 170 are respectively arranged in a diametrically opposed manner. In this regard, preferably, the two flattened portions 168 and the two arcuate portions 170 are respectively arranged in a diametrically opposed manner. However, the number of flattened portions 168 and / or arcuate portions 168 may be different from two and may be less or more than two, like only one flattened portion 168 and / or one arcuate portion 170 or three, four or more flattened portions 169 and / or arcuate portions 170. Furthermore, the flattened portions 168 and the arcuate portions 170 may be also arranged in another manner. By means of example, three flattened portions 168 may be arranged in a triangular manner when viewed in direction of the longitudinal axis L of the applicator tip 18, in particular the applicator tip 18 may then not comprise any arcuate portions 170 or the arcuate portions 170 may form rounded corners between the flattened portions 168. Furthermore, the dimension of the flattened portions 168 and the arcuate portions 170 in direction of the circumference (circumferential dimension) may be the same or different. In the embodiments shown in Figs. 26 to 28, the circumferential dimension of the arcuate portions 170 is larger than the circumferential dimension of the flattened portions 168. However, the circumferential dimension of the arcuate portions 170 may be also smaller than the circumferential dimension of the flattened portions 168. However, in order to form a gripping means 150, the side wall 134 may also be at least in sections corrugated as described with regard to Figs. 14 to 19. In particular, the entire side wall 134 may be configured in a corrugated manner as described in the context with Figs. 14 to 19.

[0269] Furthermore, the applicator tip 18 of Figs. 26 to 28 differs from the one shown in Figs. 20 to 22 in the number of guiding ribs 126 comprising a protrusion 110 as a connection member. In detail, the applicator tip 18 of Figs. 26 to 28 comprises two guiding ribs 126 provided with a protrusion 110. In this regard, it is noted that the protrusion 110 is provided at a radially elastically deflectable spring arm 154 formed by the respective guiding ribs 126 in a manner as described with regard to Figs. 20 to 22.

[0270] The guiding ribs 126 comprising the protrusion 110 are respectively arranged in a diametrically opposed manner in the arcuate portions 170 of the side wall 134. That is, the guiding ribs 126 with the protrusion 110 are formed in a radially outwardly bent portion 146 of the side wall 134.

[0271] Furthermore, the guiding ribs 126 not comprising any connection member are respectively arranged in a diametrically opposed manner in the flattened portions 168 of the side wall 134. It is noted that at least one of the guiding ribs 126 at the arcuate portions 170 of the side wall 134 may not comprise a connection member. Furthermore, at least one of the guiding ribs 126 at the flattened portions 168 of the side wall 134 may comprise a connection member, such as the protrusion 110. Even further, the guiding ribs 126 at the flattened portions 168 of the side wall 134 may be the guiding ribs 126 comprising the connection member, like the protrusion 110, whereas the guiding ribs 126 at the arcuate portions 170 of the side wall 134 may be the guiding ribs 126 without connection member. The positioning of the guiding ribs 26 in a manner as described above, allows a user to disengage the protrusion 110 from a guide track 112 by squeezing the applicator tip 18 radially inwardly at an area in which the respective flattened portions 168 transition into the arcuate portions 170 of the side wall 134. The applicator tip 18 can then be detached from the tank 16. In a similar manner, attachment of the applicator tip 18 onto the tank 16 can be supported. Hence, the above described configuration of the applicator tip allows for an intuitive user interaction.

[0272] Furthermore, the applicator tip 18 shown in Figs. 26 to 28 comprises positioning ribs 144 circumferentially off-set with regard to the guiding ribs 126, as is described for example with regard to the applicator tip 18 shown in Figs. 14 to 16 or Figs. 17 to 19.

[0273] As can be seen from Fig. 27, the positioning ribs 144 are placed in the arcuate portions 170 nearby corners between the arcuate portions 170 and the flattened portions 168. However, the positioning ribs 144 may be also placed in the flattened portions 168.

[0274] It is noted that the number of positioning ribs 144 may vary from four and may be less or more than four. It is also noted that the applicator tip 18 of Figs. 26 to 28 may be configured without any positioning ribs 144.

[0275] As can be further seen from Fig. 27, the guiding ribs 126 comprising the protrusion 110 have about the same circumferential dimension as the guiding ribs 126 not comprising any connection member. Furthermore, the positioning ribs 144 have a circumferential dimension that is smaller than the circumferential dimension of the guiding ribs 126. This enables a good trade-off between frictional forces to retain the applicator tip 18 in a desired rotational position as well as a force to be applied by a user to rotate the applicator tip 18. In the following, a further embodiment of an applicator tip 18 will be described with regard to Figs. 29 to 31 . The applicator tip 18 of Figs. 29 to 31 basically corresponds to the applicator tip 18 of Figs. 26 to 28. However, in contrast to the applicator tip of Figs. 26 to 28, the applicator tip 18 of Figs 29 to 31 does not comprise any positioning ribs 144. Instead, the circumferential dimension of the guiding ribs 126 comprising the protrusion 110 is larger than the circumferential dimension of the guiding ribs 126 not comprising any connection member (see in particular Fig. 30). In other words, the guiding ribs 126 comprising the protrusion 110 form an arc shaped wall.

[0276] Like the applicator tip 18 of Figs. 26 to 28, such kind of configuration allows for a good balance between frictional forces to retain the applicator tip 18 in a desired rotational position as well as a force to be applied by a user to rotate the applicator tip 18.

[0277] Furthermore, the side wall 134 of the applicator tip 18 shown in Figs. 29 to 31 may be at least in sections corrugated as described with regard to Figs. 14 to 19. In particular, the entire side wall 134 may be configured in a corrugated manner as described in the context with Figs. 14 to 19.

[0278] Now turning to Figs. 32 to 34, a further embodiment of the applicator tip 18 is described. The applicator tip 18 of Figs. 32 to 34 basically corresponds to the applicator tip 18 of Figs. 29 to 31 . However, in the applicator tip 18 of Figs. 32 to 34 the circumferential dimension of the guiding rib 126 comprising the protrusion 110 is so largely extended that the guiding rib 126 forms a circumferentially closed annular wall. To put it differently, the two guiding ribs 126 (shown in Figs. 29 to 31 ) comprising the protrusion 110 are connected in circumferential direction to form the circumferentially closed annular wall. This configuration renders the guiding rib 126 not comprising a connection member redundant. In this regard, it is noted that also positioning ribs 144 are also not needed. It is also noted that the annular guiding rib 126 may be segmented in the circumferential direction by axially extending slits. Furthermore, the annular guiding rib 126 may be also used in combination with a corrugated side wall 134 as described with regard to Figs. 14 to 19.

[0279] Like the other guiding ribs 126 comprising the protrusion 1 10, the annular guiding rib 126 comprising the protrusion 1 10 is also radially deflectable. In particular, the annular guiding rib 126 can be radially outwardly deflected into the cavity 156 formed between the guiding rib 126 and the inner side of the side wall 134.

[0280] It is noted that the side wall 134 may be at least in sections corrugated as described with regard to Figs. 14 to 19. In particular, the entire side wall 134 may be configured in a corrugated manner as described in the context with Figs. 14 to 19.

[0281] With regard to Figs. 35 to 37 further embodiments of the applicator tip 18 are described.

[0282] As can be seen from Figs. 35 and 36, the protrusion 110 is not formed on the inside of the applicator tip 18, but rather at its outer side. In particular, the protrusion 1 10 is formed on an outer side of the side wall 134. Even further, the protrusion 1 10 is formed at a radially inwardly recessed portion of the side wall 134. This allows for a smooth transition of the outer surfaces of the applicator tip 18 and the storing component in an assembled state.

[0283] As can be seen from Fig. 35 one protrusion 110 is respectively positioned at a circumferential position corresponding to the flattened portion 168 of the side wall 134. However, one protrusion 110 can also be respectively positioned at a circumferential position corresponding to the arcuate portion 170 of the side wall 134, as shown in Fig. 36.

[0284] Furthermore, the applicator tip 18 may comprise one protrusion at each circumferential position corresponding to the flattened portions 168 and the arcuate portions 170, i.e. being a combination of the applicator tips 18 shown in Figs. 35 and 36. However, the applicator tip 18 may comprise only at least one protrusion 110 at an arbitrary circumferential position. It is further noted that a guide track 1 12, in particular a circumferentially, preferably entirely circumferentially, extending guide track 1 12 may be provided at the outer side of the side wall 134 instead of the at least one protrusion 110 or supplementary to the at least one protrusion 1 10.

[0285] Furthermore, each protrusion 110 may be positioned at a circumferential position that corresponds to a guiding rib 126 formed on the inside of the applicator tip 18 (not shown). That is, the guiding rib 126 comprises a radially outwardly projecting protrusion. However, the protrusion 1 10 may also be formed at a circumferential position not corresponding to the guiding rib 126, hence leaving the guiding rib 126 as a guiding rib 126 without a connection member.

[0286] The applicator tips 18 shown in Figs. 35 and 36 are configured to be connected to a storing component, which in this case is the housing 12, but maybe also the shielding 14.

[0287] As becomes apparent from Fig. 37, the housing 12 comprises a guide track 1 12 on its inner side which receives the outwardly projecting protrusion 110 of the applicator tip 18.

[0288] The guide track 112 of the housing 12 preferably extends in a circumferential direction about the longitudinal axis L. In particular, the guide track 1 12 may extend in the entire circumferential direction forming a closed loop, allowing for a full 360° rotation of the attached applicator tip 18.

[0289] It is further noted that the applicator tip 18 of Fig. 35 or 36 may comprise at least one further connection member formed on the inside to engage with corresponding connection member of the tank 16, in particular as described above with regard to the embodiments shown in Figs. 12 to 34.

[0290] It is further noted that the side wall 134 may be at least in sections corrugated as described with regard to Figs. 14 to 19. In particular, the entire side wall 134 may be configured in a corrugated manner as described in the context with Figs. 14 to 19.

[0291] List of reference signs

[0292] 10 multi-use dispenser

[0293] 12 housing

[0294] 13 twist-lock means

[0295] 14 shielding

[0296] 14a front part of 14

[0297] 14b rear part of 14

[0298] 16 tank

[0299] 18 applicator tip

[0300] 20 cannula

[0301] 22 dispense activator

[0302] 24 two-arm lever

[0303] 24a fulcrum

[0304] 27 stopping element

[0305] 26 support structure

[0306] 29 snap dome

[0307] 28 push arm

[0308] 30 push button of 24

[0309] 32 drive arm of 24

[0310] 34 drive nut

[0311] 35 spring

[0312] 36 rotation mechanism

[0313] 38 ratchet teeth of 34

[0314] 40 blocking element

[0315] 42 ratchet teeth of 34

[0316] 44 ratchet teeth of 40

[0317] 46 spring

[0318] 48 washer

[0319] 50 threaded piston 52 dispensing mechanism

[0320] 54 body nut

[0321] 56 clutch

[0322] 58 plunger

[0323] 60 spring

[0324] 62 transmitter element

[0325] 64 inner end surface of 12

[0326] 66 cavity

[0327] 68 guidance structure

[0328] 70 rear end

[0329] 72 collar

[0330] 71 groove

[0331] 73 guidance means

[0332] 74 engagement means of 54

[0333] 76 engagement means of 56

[0334] 78 teeth

[0335] 80 teeth

[0336] 82 passage

[0337] 84 ramp feature

[0338] 86 ramp of 84

[0339] 88 ramp feature

[0340] 90 ramp of 88

[0341] 92 spring

[0342] 94 shoulder

[0343] 96 first coding means

[0344] 98 second coding means

[0345] 100 ring

[0346] 102 groove

[0347] 104 notch

[0348] 106 protrusion 108 channel

[0349] 110 protrusion

[0350] 112 guide track

[0351] 112a first portion

[0352] 112b second portion

[0353] 114 detent

[0354] 116 stopping member

[0355] 118 L-shaped groove

[0356] 118a axial portion of 118

[0357] 118b circumferential portion of 118

[0358] 120 retaining means

[0359] 120a first retaining means 120b second retaining means

[0360] 122 pocket

[0361] 124 interference means

[0362] 126 spline, guiding rib

[0363] 128 front end

[0364] 130 rear end

[0365] 132 front wall

[0366] 134 side wall

[0367] 136 inner surface

[0368] 138 stub

[0369] 140 passage

[0370] 142 support structure

[0371] 144 positioning rib

[0372] 146 outwardly bent portion

[0373] 148 inwardly bent portion

[0374] 150 gripping feature

[0375] 152 fin

[0376] 154 spring arm 156 cavity

[0377] 158 rear end section

[0378] 160 slit

[0379] 162 head part 164 main body

[0380] 166 shoulder

[0381] 168 flattened portion

[0382] 170 arcuate portion B arrow indicating pushing direction

[0383] E arrow indicating engagement direction

[0384] I arrow indicating an insertion direction

[0385] R arrow indicating rotation direction

[0386] T arrow indicting a twisting direction

[0387] L longitudinal axis

[0388] P pivot axis

Claims

Claims1 . Applicator tip (18) for a dispensing system (10), the applicator tip (18) longitudinally extending between a front end (128) and a rear end (130) along a longitudinal extension axis (L), the rear end (130) being open and the front end (128) comprising a front wall (132) transitioning into a side wall (134) circumferentially surrounding the longitudinal extension axis (L), the applicator tip (18) further comprising a connection member (1 10, 112) of a connecting means, the connection member (110, 1 12) being a protrusion (1 10) elastically deflectable in radial direction with regard to the longitudinal axis (L) and / or the connection member (1 10, 1 12) being a guide track (1 12) comprising a portion essentially extending into a direction circumferentially surrounding the longitudinal axis (L).

2. The applicator tip (18) of claim 1 , wherein the protrusion (1 10) is a radially inwardly projecting protrusion (1 10), in particular the protrusion (110) projecting radially inwardly from an inner side of the side wall (134), preferably the protrusion (1 10) at least partially extending in circumferential direction or entirely extending in circumferential direction.

3. The applicator tip (18) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the protrusion (1 10) is a radially outwardly projecting protrusion (1 10), in particular the protrusion (1 10) projecting radially outwardly from an outer side of the side wall (134), preferably the protrusion (1 10) at least partially extending in circumferential direction or entirely extending in circumferential direction.

4. The applicator tip (18) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the protrusion (1 10) is radially deflectable.

5. The applicator tip (18) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the portion of the guide track (1 12) extending in circumferential direction at least partially extends in circumferential direction or entirely extends in circumferential direction.

6. The applicator tip (18) of any of the preceding claims, wherein at least two axially extending guiding ribs (126) are formed on an inner side of the side wall (134), with at least one guiding rib (126) of the at least two guiding ribs (126) comprising the connection member (1 10, 1 12) of the connecting means and / or with the connection member (1 10, 1 12) of the connecting means formed between two guiding ribs (126) in circumferential direction of the side wall (134).

7. The applicator tip (18) of claim 6, wherein at least one further guiding rib (126) is arranged circumferentially off-set to the guiding rib (126) comprising the connection member (1 10, 1 12) at an angular position ranging from 10 to 350°, preferably wherein the guiding rib (126) comprising the connection member (1 10, 1 12) and the at least one further guiding rib (126) are arranged at at least substantially diametrically opposed sides of the inner side of the side wall (134) and / or wherein the guiding rib (126) comprising the connection member (110, 1 12) and the at least one further guiding rib (126) are arranged at at least substantially at 90° to each other on the inner side of the side wall (134).

8. The applicator tip (18) of any of claims 6 or 7, wherein the dimension in circumferential direction of the at least one guiding rib (126) comprising the connection member (110, 1 12) and the dimension in circumferential direction of the at least one guiding rib (126) without the connection member (110, 1 12) is the same or different, in particular the width in circumferentialdirection of the at least one guiding rib (126) comprising the connection member (110, 112) and the width in circumferential direction of the at least one guiding rib (126) without the connection member (110, 112) is larger or smaller.

9. The applicator tip (18) of any of claims 6 to 8, wherein the at least two guiding ribs (126) are connected in circumferential direction to form a circumferentially extending annular wall, in particular the wall comprising the connection member (110, 112); or wherein at least one of the guiding ribs (126), in particular the guiding rib (126) comprising the connection member (110, 112), forms a wall extending at least in sections in the circumferential direction.

10. The applicator tip (18) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the applicator tip (18) comprises a stub (138) axially extending from the front wall (132) in direction towards the rear end (130) of the applicator tip (18), in particular the stub (138) forming a passage (140) extending through the front wall (132).11 . The applicator tip (18) of any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one axially extending positioning rib (144) is formed on the inner side of the side wall (134), the positioning rib (144) circumferentially off-set with regard to the guiding ribs (126).

12. The applicator tip (18) of claims 6 to 11 , wherein the positioning rib (144) axially extends from the front wall (132) in a direction towards the rear end (130) of the applicator tip (18) and an axial length of the positioning rib (144) is shorter than an axial length of the guiding ribs (126), in particular the axial length of the positioning ribs (144) being the same or longer than an axial length of the stub (138).

13. The applicator tip (18) of any of the preceding claims 6 to 12, wherein at least one guiding rib (126) is formed by a radially inwardly bent portion (148) of the side wall (134) and / or wherein at least one guiding rib (126) is formed in a radially outwardly bent portion (146) of the side wall (134).

14. The applicator tip (18) of any of the preceding claims 6 to 13, wherein at least one guiding rib (126) is formed at a flattened portion (168) of the side wall (134).

15. The applicator tip (18) of any of the claims 11 to 14, wherein at least one positioning rib (144) is formed by a radially inwardly bent portion (148) of the side wall (134) and / or wherein at least one positioning rib (144) is formed in a radially outwardly bent portion (146) of the side wall (134).

16. The applicator tip (18) of any of the preceding claims, in particular of any of claims 13 to 15, wherein a gripping feature (150) is formed on an outer side of the side wall (134), in particular by the inwardly bent portion (148) and / or the outwardly bent portion (146) of the side wall (134); or in particular by the flattened portion (168) and / or the radially outwardly bent portion (146) of the side wall.

17. The applicator tip (18) according to any of the preceding claims 6 to 16, wherein the guiding rib (126) comprising the connection member (110, 112) is spring elastically radially deflectable at least at a portion comprising the connection member (110, 112).

18. The applicator tip (18) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the side wall (134) is at least in sections spring elastically radially deflectable, inparticular the part of the side wall (134) that comprises the guiding rib (126) comprising the connection member (1 10, 1 12).

19. The applicator tip (18) according to any of the preceding claims 6 to 18, wherein the guiding rib (126) comprising the connection member (1 10, 112) forms a spring arm (154), the connection member (110, 1 12) formed at the spring arm (154).

20. The applicator tip (18) according to claim 19, wherein the guiding rib (126) comprising the connection member (1 10, 1 12) is excavated at least in a section comprising the connection member (1 10, 1 12), thereby forming a cavity (156) between the section of the guiding rib (126) comprising the connection member (1 10, 1 12) and the side wall (134); or wherein the side wall (134) comprises two axially extending slits (160), with one slit (160) respectively formed on either side of the guiding rib (126) comprising the connection member (1 10, 1 12).21 . The applicator tip (18) according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the side wall (134) is formed of a rigid material.

22. The applicator tip (18) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the applicator tip (18) comprises a cannula (20), in particular the cannula (20) being bent or bendable.

23. The applicator tip (18) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the applicator tip (18) comprises at least one interference means (124), in particular creating an interference fit between the applicator tip (18) and a further component, such as a storing component (12, 14, 16), of the dispensing system (10) when the dispensing system (10) is fully assembled.

24. A storing component (12, 14, 16), in particular a tank (16), for a dispensing system (10), the storing component (12, 14, 16) configured to store a material and extending in a longitudinal direction defining a longitudinal axis (L), the storing component (12, 14, 16) further comprising a connection member (110, 112) of a connecting means, the connection member (110, 112) being a guide track (112) comprising a portion (112b) essentially extending into a direction circumferentially surrounding the longitudinal axis (L), in particular, the guide track (112) entirely extending in the circumferential direction, and / or the connection member (110, 112) being an elastically deflectable protrusion (110).

25. The storing component (12, 14, 16) of claim 24, wherein the connection member (110, 112) is formed on at least one of an outer side or an inner side of the storing component (12, 14, 16).

26. The storing component (12, 14, 16) of claim 24 or 25, wherein the guide track (112) comprises a first portion (112a) transitioning into a second portion (112b), the first portion (112a) essentially extending into the longitudinal axis (L) or being helically inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis (L) and the portion (112b) essentially extending into the direction circumferentially surrounding the longitudinal axis (L) forming the second portion (112b).

27. The storing component (12, 14, 16) of any of claims 24 to 26, wherein at least one detent (114) is formed in the first portion (112a) of the guide track (112) and / or in the second portion (112b) of the guide track (112) and / or in a region in which the first portion (112a) transitions into the second portion (112b).

28. The storing component (12, 14, 16) of claim 26 or 27, wherein a stopping member (116) is arranged at an end of the second portion (112b).

29. The storing component (12, 14, 16) of claim 28, wherein the stopping member (116) separates the end of the second portion (112b) from the first portion (112a).

30. The storing component (12, 14, 16) of claim 29, wherein the part of the stopping member (116) facing the first portion (112a) lies flush with the first portion (112a).31 . The storing component (12, 14, 16) of any of claims 28 to 30, wherein a rotational angle of the second portion (112b) of the guide track (112) is at least 330°, preferably at least 350° and ideally 360°, when the stopping member (116) is arranged in the second portion (112b).

32. The storing component (12, 14, 16) of any of the claims 27 to 31 , wherein the detent (114) is formed in an end part of the first portion (112a) transitioning into the second portion (112b).

33. The storing component (12, 14, 16) of any of the claims 27 to 32, wherein the detent (114) lies flush with the second portion (112b).

34. The storing component (12, 14, 16) of claims 32 or 33, wherein a rotational angle of the second portion (112b) of the guide track (112) is at least 330°, preferably at least 350° and ideally 360°, when the detent (114) is arranged in the first portion (112a) and the stopping member (116) is arranged in the second portion (112b).

35. The storing component (12, 14, 16) of claims 27 to 30, wherein the detent (1 14) is formed in the beginning part of the second portion (1 12b) transitioning into the first portion (1 12a).

36. The storing component (12, 14, 16) of claim 35, wherein a rotational angle of the second portion (1 12b) of the guide track (1 12) is at least 270°, preferably at least 280° and more preferably at least 300°, when the detent (1 14) and the stopping member (116) are arranged in the second portion (1 12b).

37. The storing component (12, 14, 16) of any of the claims 26 to 36, wherein the width of the first portion (1 12a) as seen in the circumferential direction is larger than a width of the second portion (1 12b) as seen in the longitudinal direction (L).

38. The storing component (12, 14, 16) of claim 37, wherein the protrusion (1 10) has a width that corresponds to the width of the first portion (1 12a) and a height that corresponds to the width of the second portion (1 12b).

39. The storing component (12, 14, 16) of any of the claims 24 to 38, wherein the protrusion (1 10) is elastically deflectable in radial direction with regard to the longitudinal axis (L).

40. The storing component (12, 14, 16) of any of the claims 26 to 39, wherein a length of the second portion (1 12b) of the guide track (1 12) in circumferential direction is longer than a length of the first portion (1 12a) of the guide track (1 12) in axial direction.41 . The storing component (12, 14, 16) of any of any of the claims 24 to 40, wherein the storing component (12, 14, 16) comprises at least one interference means (124), in particular creating an interference fit between the storing component (12, 14, 16) and a further component, such as an applicator tip (18), of the dispensing system (10) when the dispensing system (10) is fully assembled.

42. Dispensing system (10) comprising: a storing component (12, 14, 16), in particular according to any of the claims 24 to 41 , the storing component (12, 14, 16) configured to store a material and extending in a longitudinal direction defining a longitudinal axis (L), and an applicator tip (18), in particular according to one of the claims 1 to 23, the applicator tip (18) connectable directly to the storing component (12, 14, 16) by a connecting means, in particular a bayonet type connecting means and / or a form-fit, in particular an interference-fit, type connecting means, the connecting means comprising a first connection member (1 10, 112) being a guide track (112) either formed on the storing component (12, 14, 16) or the applicator tip (18) and a second connection member being a protrusion (1 10) formed on the corresponding other one of the applicator tip (18) and the storing component (12, 14, 16), the protrusion (1 10) being guided by the guide track (1 12) upon attachment of the applicator tip (18) to the storing component (12, 14, 16).

43. The dispensing system of claim 42, wherein the guide track (1 12) comprises a first portion (1 12a) transitioning into a second portion (1 12b), the first portion (1 12a) essentially extending into the longitudinal axis (L) or being helically inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis (L) and the second portion (1 12b) essentially extending into a direction circumferentially surrounding the longitudinal axis (L),wherein at least one detent (114) is formed in the first portion (112a) of the guide track (112) and / or in the second portion (112b) of the guide track (112) and / or in a region in which the first portion (112a) transitions into the second portion (112b).

44. The dispensing system (10) according to claim 42 or 43, wherein the storing component (12, 14, 16) and / or the applicator tip (18) comprises at least one interference means (124), in particular creating an interference fit when the storing component (12, 14, 16) and the applicator tip (18) are fully assembled.

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