Dispenser and applicator tip for a dispenser

Abstract

A dispenser extending between a front end and a rear end along a longitudinal axis, the dispenser comprising: a threaded piston rod extending and movable along the longitudinal axis; a body nut in engagement, in particular in threaded en- gagement, with the piston rod; a drive nut in engagement, in particular in threaded engagement, with the piston rod; and a drive tube rotatable about the longitudinal axis and at least partially accommodating the piston rod in a slidable non-engaged manner, the drive tube interacting with the drive nut, wherein a rotation of the drive tube in a first direction causes a rotation of the piston rod about the longitudinal axis by a rotation of the drive nut and the rotation of the piston rod being trans- ferred into an axial movement of the piston rod, in particular towards the front end, by means of the engagement between the piston rod and the body nut; the dis- penser further comprising a lever pivotable about a pivot axis, wherein an activa- tion of the lever for dispense operation rotates the drive tube in the first rotation di- rection. An applicator tip, in particular for a dispenser, extending between a rear end and a front end along an axial direction, the rear end being open and the front end com- prising a closed front wall transitioning into a side wall circumferentially extending about the axial direction, the side wall being radially deflectable with regard to the axial direction and the side wall comprising a connection member formed on an in- ner side of the side wall. A dispenser comprising a housing extending between a front end and a rear end along a longitudinal axis, the housing comprising a side wall extending along the longitudinal axis; the dispenser further comprising a piston rod axially movable rel- ative to the housing along the longitudinal axis; and the dispenser further compris- ing an indicator means interacting with the piston rod, the indicator means indicat- ing an axial position of the piston rod relative to the housing.

Description

[0001] medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 1

[0002] Dispenser and Applicator Tip for a Dispenser

[0003] The present invention is directed at a dispenser extending between a front end and a rear end along a longitudinal axis, the dispenser comprising a threaded piston rod extending and movable along the longitudinal axis, a body nut in engagement, in particular in threaded engagement with the piston rod, a drive nut in engagement, in particular in threaded engagement, with the piston rod, and a drive tube rotatable about the longitudinal axis and at least partially accommodating the piston rod in a slidable non-engaged manner, the drive tube interacting with the drive nut, wherein a rotation of the drive tube in a first direction causes a rotation of the piston rod about the longitudinal axis by a rotation of the drive nut and the rotation of the piston rod being transferred into an axial movement of the piston rod, in particular towards the front end, by means of the engagement between the piston rod and the body nut.

[0004] Such kind of dispenser is well known in the art and is preferably employed as a multi-use dispenser to discharge a material out of a tank attached to the dispenser. Exemplary materials discharged by the dispenser from the tank storing the material are 1 K materials, fluids, cremes, medical fluids, etching materials, adhesives, ointments, paints and the like. These materials may be in particular used in medical applications such as dental or surgical applications.

[0005] In such applications, it is desirable to dispense a precise amount of material.

[0006] Hence, it is one object of the invention to provide a dispenser that allows for precise material dispensing.

[0007] This object is satisfied by the dispenser comprising the features of claim 1.

[0008] According to a first aspect, the invention is directed at a dispenser comprising the features of claim 1 and in particular a lever pivotable about a pivot axis, whereinmedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 2

[0009] an activation of the lever for dispense operation rotates the drive tube in the first rotation direction.

[0010] The invention is based on the idea that the leverage of the lever allows for applying small forces to rotate the drive tube and therefore to advance the piston rod. That is a user of the dispenser needs to apply only a rather low force to advance the piston rod. Due to the lower force used for dispensing, the lever can be precisely moved ultimately allowing for a precise material discharge.

[0011] Further advantages of the invention are defined in the dependent claims and become apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings.

[0012] The lever can be pushed for dispense or discharge action. During such kind of activation of the lever, the lever is rotated about the pivot axis in a first direction of rotation from an initial position into an activated position in which the lever is depressed, i.e. moved radially towards the longitudinal axis of the dispenser.

[0013] Consequently, a counter rotation of the lever in a second direction opposite to the first direction moves the lever from the activated position into its initial position.

[0014] Preferably, the pivot axis of the lever is fixed with regard to the remaining parts of the dispenser. That is the pivot axis does not move with regard to the remaining parts of the dispenser, in particular as the lever is rotated. In this regard, it is noted that the pivot axis and the longitudinal axis may be aligned at least substantially perpendicular each other.

[0015] The drive tube preferably comprises an axially extending passage which accommodates the piston rod in a slidable non-engaged manner. In this regard, it is noted that the accommodation of the piston rod in the drive tube in a slidable non-medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 3

[0016] engaged manner means that no engagement means are formed between the piston rod and the drive tube such that, without any further parts of the dispenser except for the piston rod and the drive tube, the piston rod can slide with regard to the drive tube. In particular if the drive tube comprises two open axial ends of the passage, the piston rod can slide through the drive tube without hindrance. Furthermore, due to the slidable non-engaged accommodation, the piston rod is also allowed to rotate relative to the drive tube.

[0017] However, it is also noted, that an outermost surface of the piston rod may bear against an inner wall of the drive tube’s passage, such that the piston rod is supported by the drive tub, in particular against substantial tilting of the piston rod with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0018] By means of definition, the front end of the dispenser may also be referred to as distal end of the dispenser, whereas the rear end of the dispenser may also be referred to the proximal end of the dispenser. In this regard, the front end of the dispenser is that part thereof which is used to dispense material, whereas the rear end refers to a portion opposite of the front end when viewed in direction of the longitudinal axis. Accordingly, a dispensing direction points from the rear end towards the front end. Furthermore, the front end of the dispenser is that end of the dispenser that in use of the dispenser is closest to the application site, which may be for example the teeth or gums of a patient.

[0019] Preferably the piston rod and the drive nut and / or the body nut are in respective threaded engagement. It is to be understood that the respective threads extend about the longitudinal axis in a spiral manner. However, in a special case of the threaded engagement, one of the engagements of the piston rod with drive nut or the body nut is in a splined engagement, with the respective splines extending at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. Such kind of configuration corresponds to a threaded engagement in which the respective threads have an infinitemedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 4

[0020] pitch. It is understood that the respective other engagement of the piston rod and the body nut or drive nut is in conventional spiral like manner.

[0021] In the spiral like configuration, the pitch of the threaded engagement between the piston rod and the drive tube and the pitch of the threaded engagement between the piston rod and the body nut may be the same or different.

[0022] In particular, according to a preferred embodiment, the piston rod is in threaded engagement with each of the drive nut and the body nut, the respective threads of the drive nut and the body nut being counter directed and a pitch of the drive nut thread is the same as or different to a pitch of the body nut thread, in particular a drive nut thread being larger than a body nut thread. By using different pitches, the advantage of the piston rod can be adjusted.

[0023] In order to transfer a motion between the lever and the drive tube, the dispenser preferably comprises transmission means. In this regard the transmission means may allow for a bidirectional motion transfer between the lever and the drive tube. That is motion from the lever can be transferred onto the drive tube and motion from the drive tube can be transferred onto the lever.

[0024] In particular, rotation of the lever in the first direction may rotate the drive tube in a first direction. A rotation of the lever in a second direction opposite to the first direction may correspond to a rotation of the drive tube in a second direction opposite to its first direction of rotation.

[0025] The transmission means generally may comprise a geared configuration, such as for instance a worm gear.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 5

[0026] However, in a preferred embodiment, the transmission means comprises a bevel gear associated with the lever and meshing with a corresponding bevel gear associated with the drive tube.

[0027] The lever and the bevel gear associated with the lever may be formed as a single piece, allowing for a sufficient force transfer. However, the bevel gear and the lever may also be separate pieces, with the bevel gear firmly attached to the lever, for example by using an adhesive and / or interference fit, allowing for an easy assembly.

[0028] Furthermore, the drive tube and the bevel gear associated with the drive tube may be formed as a single piece, allowing for a sufficient force transfer. However, the bevel gear and the drive tube may be separate pieces, with the bevel gear firmly attached to the drive tube, for example by using an adhesive and / or interference fit and / or force fit, enabling an easy assembly.

[0029] Preferably, the bevel gears are straight bevel gears which are easy to produce. However, the bevel gears may also be a spiral bevel gear enabling a smoother motion transmission with less vibration and less noise.

[0030] In order to equally transmit force from the lever onto the drive tube in a balanced manner, the transmission means may comprise two counter rotating bevel gears associated with the lever and two counter rotating bevel gears associated with the drive tube. The bevel gears of the drive tube may be arranged on oppositely averted side surfaces of the drive tube.

[0031] According to a preferred configuration, rotation of the drive tube in the first direction is transmitted onto the drive nut by means of a drive ratchet. In other words, the drive tube indirectly interacts with the drive nut via the drive ratchet.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 6

[0032] In order to transmit rotation from the drive tube onto the drive nut, the drive ratchet is preferably rotationally fixed with regard to the drive tube and the drive ratchet comprises ratchet teeth interacting with corresponding ratchet teeth formed on the drive nut. In this regard, it is noted that the ratchet teeth of the drive ratchet and ratchet teeth of the drive nut are configured in a manner that rotation of the drive tube in the first direction is transmitted into a rotation of the drive nut in the same direction.

[0033] Rotational fixation of the drive ratchet with regard to the drive tube may be achieved for instance by means of a form fit connection between the drive tube and the drive ratchet, such as for example using at least one protrusion and / or at least one recess formed at the drive tube interacting with at least one corresponding recess and / or protrusion formed on the drive ratchet. In particular, the drive ratchet and the drive tube are rotationally fixed by means of a splined form fit connection, with the splines of the drive tube and the splines of the drive ratchet extending at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0034] Preferably the form fit connection means may be formed on an outer surface of the drive tube and the corresponding form fit connection means of the drive ratchet may be formed on an inner surface of the drive ratchet radially surrounding the outer surface of the drive tube. However, the form fit connection means of the drive ratchet may be formed on an outer surface of the drive ratchet and the corresponding form fit connection means may be formed on an inner surface of the drive tube, if the drive tube radially surrounds the drive ratchet.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the drive tube is rotated in the first rotation direction against a return force of a return spring. Preferably, the return spring is a torsional spring. The torsional spring may circumferentially surround the drive tube.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 7

[0036] Alternatively or supplementary, the lever may be pushed against a return force of a return spring. The return spring may be a compression spring, in particular that is compressed as the lever is depressed.

[0037] Either one of the return springs or both return springs allow for bringing the drive tube and / or the lever into their respective initial position to enable further dispensing action. In this regard, as it is possible to bidirectionally transmit motion between the lever and the drive tube, only one of the return springs, i.e. the return spring directly associated with the drive tube or the return spring directly associated with the lever, is sufficient to return the lever and the drive tube into their respective initial positions.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the return force of the return spring directly associated with the drive tube is adjustable. For this purpose, the dispenser may comprise a preload means. The preload means may allow for compressing the return spring more or less by varying a position of the preload means. When a desired return force has been adjusted, the position of the preload means can be fixed, in particular with regard to the housing. Using the preload means allows for tuning a force to push the lever, since the lever indirectly interacts with the return spring directly associated with the drive tube via the transmission means.

[0039] Preferably, the body nut is rotationally fixed during dispense operation. However, the body nut may be allowed to freely rotate during resetting of the piston rod.

[0040] A rotational fixation of the body nut during dispense operation transforms the rotational movement of the piston rod in the first direction of rotation into an axial movement of the piston rod. Preferably this advances the piston rod towards the front end of the dispenser, thereby discharging material out of a tank attached to the dispenser.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 8

[0041] It is noted that a tank attached to the dispenser is a part of the dispenser.

[0042] Free rotational movement of the body nut during resetting of the piston rod enables an easy axial movement of the piston rod towards the rear end. In this regard it is noted that resetting of the piston rod generally refers to an axial displacement of the piston rod towards the rear end of the dispenser.

[0043] Transition between a rotationally fixed body nut and a freely rotatable body nut may be achieved by means of a clutch. The dispenser therefore preferably comprises a clutch moveable, between a disengaged position and an engaged position, the body nut allowed to freely rotate in the disengaged position of the clutch and the body nut being rotationally fixed in the engaged position of the clutch.

[0044] Preferably, the clutch is axially movable with respect to the longitudinal axis between the engaged position and the disengaged position.

[0045] In order to prevent a backward movement of the drive nut as well as the piston rod, i.e. to prevent a rotation of the piston rod in the second rotation direction during lever release, the dispenser may comprise a counter ratchet blocking a rotation of the drive nut in the second direction opposite to the first direction of rotation.

[0046] Preferably, the counter ratchet comprises ratchet teeth interacting with corresponding ratchet teeth formed on the drive nut. The counter ratchet may be rotationally fixed with regard to a housing of the dispenser, by a form fit connection between the counter ratchet and the housing, such as for example using at least one protrusion and / or at least one recess formed at the counter ratchet interacting with at least one corresponding recess and / or protrusion formed at the housing. In particular, the counter ratchet and the housing are rotationally fixed by means of a splined form fit connection, with the splines of the counter ratchet and the splines of the housing extending at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 9

[0047] It is to be understood that the counter ratchet allows free rotational movement of the drive nut during dispense operation. However, the counter ratchet rotationally fixes the drive nut during resetting of the piston rod. The piston rod is then simply pushed through the drive nut as the piston rod is moved rearwards during resetting, in particular since the body nut is allowed to freely rotate during resetting of the piston rod.

[0048] In order to achieve blocking of the drive nut during piston rod resetting, the respective blocking directions of the drive ratchet and the counter ratchet may be effective in the same direction.

[0049] According to a further embodiment, the dispenser may comprise a spring that biases the piston rod towards the front end. This enables the piston rod to engage with a plunger accommodated in the tank attached to the dispenser. Consequently, immediate discharge action is possible as the lever is depressed.

[0050] The spring may be at least partially, preferably entirely, accommodated in the drive tube. This enables a compact set-up of the dispenser. In particular this allows for a smaller diameter of the dispenser. The spring may directly act on the piston rod or by a transmitter element arranged axially between the piston rod and the spring.

[0051] The spring acting on the piston rod may be a compression spring.

[0052] Furthermore, the spring acting on the piston rod may also be referred to as autoprime spring.

[0053] It is to be understood that the spring force of the spring is chosen that the piston rod is not urged forwards to the front end, when a filled tank is attached to the dispenser. This ensures that material stored in the tank is not dispensed by the meremedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 10

[0054] spring force of the spring, i.e. dispense operation is only achieved by activation of the lever. In particular, a forward urging of the drive rod by means of the spring alone can be prevented by the friction arising from the threaded engagement of the piston rod with both of the drive nut and the rotationally fixed body nut.

[0055] As mentioned above, the dispenser may comprise a tank storing a material.

[0056] The tank may be attachable to and detachable from the dispenser.

[0057] In particular, the tank may be received in the housing of the dispenser, when the tank is attached to the dispenser.

[0058] The tank may be pre-filled or refillable with the material.

[0059] Discharge of the material from the tank attached to the housing may be achieved by an axial movement of the piston rod towards the front end of the dispenser. The piston rod may interact with a plunger slidable inside the tank. The plunger may be part of the tank or may be attached to the piston rod.

[0060] The material stored in the tank may be at least one selected from the following materials: a liquid; a gel, in particular a hydrogel; a cream; a foam; a lotion; a solution; an ointment; an adhesive; an etching material; a primer material; a sealant; a pharmaceutical material; a cosmetical material; a topical material; a dental material; a material for industrial applications.

[0061] In particular, the material for industrial applications may comprise at least one of the following: an industrial adhesive, in particular such as an acryl based adhesive, an epoxy based adhesive, a polyurethane based adhesive, a silicone based adhesive, a thermoset adhesive, a light curable adhesive; an industrial sealant, in particular a phenol based sealant, an epoxy based sealant, a silicone based sealant,medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 11

[0062] an acryl based sealant; a conductive material, in particular a conductive adhesive or a conductive paint, preferably the conductive material comprising a conductive material, such as carbon, copper, zinc, nickel, silver; a protective material, in particular a protective paint; a lubricant; an oil; a grease; a flux material, in particular a solder flux material.

[0063] In particular, the adhesive may be at least one selected from the following materials: a light curable adhesive, in particular an ultraviolet light (UV) curable adhesive; a self-curable adhesive; a dual-curable adhesive; a one-step adhesive; a multi-step adhesive; an universal adhesive; a dental adhesive; a surgical adhesive; a skin adhesive; a fibrin based adhesive; a polyethylene glycol (PEG) based adhesive; a cyanoacrylate based adhesive; an acrylic adhesive; a silicone based adhesive; a polyurethane based adhesive; an epoxy based adhesive; a wood adhesive.

[0064] The adhesive may be used in combination with an etching material and / or a primer material. In particular, the adhesive may be compatible with a total etch material, a self etch material or a selective etch material.

[0065] For instance, a bonding system may be formed by a light curable adhesive together with a total-etch material.

[0066] By means of a further example, a bonding system may comprise a light curable adhesive together with a self etch material or a selective etch material.

[0067] At least one of the adhesives mentioned above may be used for industrial, medical, surgical, topical, cosmetical or dental applications.

[0068] The sealant may be at least one selected from the following materials: a dental sealant; a tissue sealant; a surgical sealant; in particular a bio-based surgical seal-medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 12

[0069] ant, like a fibrin based surgical sealant, an alginate based surgical sealant or a collagen based surgical sealant; a dural sealant; a hemostatic sealant; a polymer based sealant, in particular such as a polyvinyl based sealant, a polyester based sealant, a polysulfide based sealant, a polyamide based sealant or a polyurethane based sealant.

[0070] Further details regarding adhesive materials and sealant materials are given in E. M. Petrie: “Handbook of Adhesives and Sealants”, third edition, McGraw Hill LLC, (2021).

[0071] Further details regarding tissue adhesive and surgical sealants can be found for instance in P. Jarret, A. Coury: “16 - Tissue adhesives and sealants for surgical applications” in “Joining and assembly of medical materials and devices” edited by Y. Zhou and M. D. Breyen, pages 449-490, (2013).

[0072] Preferably, the pharmaceutical material comprises a base material, such as a liq¬ uid, gel or cream; and at least one therapeutic agent, such as for example, a hor¬ mone, like a corticosteroid; and / or a medication, in particular a pain medication; a drug and / or a botanical.

[0073] The pharmaceutical material may further comprise an additive including: an emul¬ sifier; an anti-foaming agent; a skin penetration enhancer; a medication stabilizer; an anti-oxidant; a buffer or the like.

[0074] It is noted that at least some of the materials specifically described with regard to the pharmaceutical materials may be used as topical materials and / or dental materials and / or cosmetical materials.

[0075] The topical material may comprise an active ingredient, such as a medication, a drug and / or a botanical.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 13

[0076] The topical material may additionally comprise at least one of a vehicle, such as water, an oil, an alcohol (e.g. ethanol or propylene glycol); a preservative; an emulsifier; an absorption promoter; and a fragrance.

[0077] In particular, the topical material may comprise at least one selected from the following materials: a topical steroid, such as a corticosteroid or a glucocorticoid; a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID); a topical retinoid; a topical antifungal material; a topical antibiotic; a topical antiviral material; a topical pain reliever; a topical calcineurin inhibitor; a topical Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor; a topical immunomodulator; hyaluronic acid; a vitamin, in particular vitamin C and / or vitamin E; a topical antihistamine; a topical chemotherapy medication; a topical antineo-plastics; a topical biopharmaceutical; a topical enzyme-based treatment agent; a skin or nail medication, such as for instance an epidermis treatment medicine or an ulcer and / or aphtha treatment material; a topically applicable transdermal medication; a cosmetic material; a bleaching agent, in particular a skin or a dental bleaching agent, such as an endodontic bleaching material; a colouring agent, in particular a skin or dental colouring agent; a topical skin adhesive, in particular a silicone or polyacrylate based skin adhesive; a wound care product, such as an antiseptic an / or a dressing; a hydrogel for wound care applications; an anti-itch (anti-pruritus) substance; an emollient, like ammonium lactate and / or salicylic acid and / or urea; an anaesthetics.

[0078] It is noted that at least some of the topical materials may also be used as dental materials and / or pharmaceutical materials and / or cosmetical materials.

[0079] The dental material may comprise at least one selected from the following materials: a dental composite material; an impression material; a dental cement, in particular a 1 K dental cement or a 2K dental cement; a filling material, in particular temporal or a permanent filling material, preferably a root canal filling material; amedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 14

[0080] dental sealant (e.g. a root canal sealant, a fissure sealant); a dental restorative material; a dental adhesive, such as a dental universal adhesive; a primer material, such as a single-step primer or a multi-step primer, in particular for use with a dental adhesive; a dental etch material, such as a total-etch material, a self-etch material or a selective etch material, in particular for use with a dental adhesive; a dental varnish; a caries detection material; a root canal detection material; a dental fluoride compound (like sodium fluoride (NaF), tin(ll) fluoride (SnF2), sodium monofluorophosphate (Na2PO3F), an amine fluoride, a fluoride varnish); an antiseptic (such as for instance chlorhexidine, a tincture of iodine, methylene blue); a desensitizer; an anaesthetics, in particular a local anaesthetics, an injectable anaesthetics or a topical anaesthetics; a dentine conditioner, in particular a dentine conditioner comprising a solution containing polyacrylic acid; a restorative material, like a composite resin, a glass ionomer cement, a ceramic material; a periodontal medication; a pulp capping material or a pulp dressing material; a periodontal anaesthetics; an irrigation material, in particular a periodontal irrigation material or an endodontic irrigation material; a liquid dam; a vitamin, in particular vitamin C and / or vitamin E; a retraction material, in particular containing an astringent substance; a bleaching agent; a staining material, in particular for photodynamic therapy; a try-in paste.

[0081] The dental composite material may be a hybrid composite resin, a flowable composite or a condensable composite.

[0082] The dental composite material may be composed of an organic material, such as a polymer, in particular a semi-crystalline polyceram (PEX); an inorganic filler material, such as for instance silicon dioxide; and a coupling agent, such as an orga-nosilane.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 15

[0083] The organic material may be obtained by polymerization of monomers such as for example bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA), urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) or methyl methacrylate (MMA).

[0084] Polymerization may be photo-induced, by using for example ultraviolet light; thermally initiated; or chemically initiated, in particular using free radical polymerisation, cationic polymerisation, anionic polymerisation or coordination polymerisation.

[0085] The filler material may comprise inorganic microparticles and / or nanoparticles.

[0086] The filler material may be at least one of silicon dioxide, calcium metaphosphate, boron silicate and lithium aluminium silicate.

[0087] Further details regarding dental materials can be found for instance in Hervas-Gar-cfa, A., Martinez-Lozano, M. A., Cabanes- Vila, J., Barjau-Escribano, A., Fos-Galve P.: “Composite resins. A review of the materials and clinical indications” in Medic-ina Oral, Patologfa Oral, Cirugfa Bucal, 11 , E215-20, (2006).

[0088] Typical impression materials may be alginates, polyvinyl siloxanes, polyethers, rubber based materials and zinc oxide eugenol pastes.

[0089] Further details regarding impression materials can be found for instance in Pa-padiochos, L, Papadiochou, S., Emmanouil, L: “The Historical Evolution of Dental Impression Materials” in Journal of the History of Dentistry, Volume 65, Issue 2, pages 79-89, (2017). Rubel, B. S.: “Impression Materials: A Comparative Review of Impression Materials Most Commonly Used in Restorative Dentistry” in Dental Clinics of North America, Volume 51 , Issue 3, pages 629-642, (2007).medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 16

[0090] The dental cements may generally comprise a zinc phosphate cement, a zinc polycarboxylate cement, polyethers, a rubber based material, a zinc oxide eugenol paste and / or a glass-ionomer cement.

[0091] The dental cements may be either a definitive cement or a provisional, i.e. temporary, cement.

[0092] The definitive cements may comprise a zinc phosphate cement; a zinc polycarboxylate cement; a conventional glass-ionomer cement; a resin-modified glass-ionomer cement and / or a resin cement, in particular a methacrylate based resin cement, such as for instance a bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA) based cement.

[0093] The provisional cement may be at least one of calcium hydroxide and zinc oxide mixed with eugenol or a similar substance.

[0094] Further details regarding dental cements can be found for instance in Donovan, T. E., Chee, W. W.: “A review of contemporary impression materials and techniques” in Dental Clinics of North America, Volume 48, Issue 2, pages 445-470, (2004). Paul J.: “Dental Cements - A Review to Proper Selection” in International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences, Volume 4, Number 2, pages 659-669, (2015).

[0095] The bleaching agent typically may contain a peroxide, such as hydrogen peroxide and / or carbamide peroxide.

[0096] The bleaching agent may contain a neutralizing agent, like alkali oxides, hydroxides or carbonates.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 17

[0097] The bleaching agent and / or the neutralizing agent may be contained in a polymeric gel.

[0098] Further details regarding bleaching agents can be found for instance in Karina Irusa, K., Abd Alrahaem, L, Nguyen Ngoc, C., Donovan, T: “Tooth whitening procedures: A narrative review” in Dentistry Review, Volume 2, Issue 3, 100055, (2022).

[0099] The root canal filling material may be at least one of a sealer material, such as zinc oxide-eugenol (ZOE), a glass ionomer resin, a composite resin, a bioceramicbased material, a core material, such as gutta-percha.

[0100] The root canal filling material may be a polymer of polyester combined with a bioactive glass and optionally a radiopaque filler, like a heavy metal salt such as bismuth oxychloride and / or barium sulfate.

[0101] In particular, the root canal filling material may be a resin-based polycaprolactone polymer.

[0102] Further details regarding root canal filling materials can be found for instance in Desphane, P.M., Naik, R.R: “Comprehensive review on recent root canal filling materials and techniques - An update” in International Journal of Applied Dental Sciences, Volume 1 , Number 5, pages 30-34, (2015). Cardinali, F., Camilleri, J. A.: “Critical review of the material properties guiding the clinician’s choice of root canal sealers” in Clinical Oral Investigations, 27, pages 4147-4155, (2023). Saud, A., KOQ, E., Ozdemir, O.: “Current Bio-based Cements and Radioactive Opacifiers in Endodontic Approaches: A Review of the Materials Used in Clinical Practice” in European Journal of Therapeutics, 29(4), 930-951 , (2023). Gasner, N.S., Bri-zuela, M.: “Endodontic Materials Used To Fill Root Canals” in StatPearls, (2023).medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 18

[0103] It is noted that at least some of the materials specifically described with regard to the dental materials may also be used as topical materials and / or pharmaceutical materials and / or cosmetical materials.

[0104] Furthermore, the pharmaceutical materials, the topical materials, the dental materials, the cosmetical materials relate to products, like substances or compositions, for use in surgical and / or therapeutical applications, in particular regarding the treatment of a human and / or an animal.

[0105] Accordingly, a dispenser comprising a tank filled with said pharmaceutical material, topical material, dental material and / or cosmetical material is a product for use in surgical and / or therapeutical applications, in particular regarding the treatment of a human and / or an animal.

[0106] According to a first item of a second aspect of the invention, the invention is also directed to a further dispenser, the dispenser comprises a housing extending between a front end and a rear end along a longitudinal axis, the housing comprising a side wall extending along the longitudinal axis; the dispenser further comprising a piston rod axially movable relative to the housing along the longitudinal axis; and the dispenser further comprising an indicator means interacting with the piston rod, the indicator means indicating an axial position of the piston rod relative to the housing.

[0107] In this connection it is mentioned that the dispenser of the second aspect may comprise at least some of the features as described with regard to the dispenser of the first aspect. Likewise, the dispenser of the first aspect may comprise at least some of the features described with regard to the dispenser of the second aspect. In particular, any of the items of the dispenser of the second aspect described hereinafter may be combined with any of the features described above with the regard to the dispenser of the first aspect. Furthermore, any of the features of themedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 19

[0108] first dispenser may be combined with any of the items of the dispenser according to the second aspect.

[0109] Using an indicator means in a dispenser as described herein allows for a precise dispensing of a material, as the travel of the piston rod can be seen by the user. In particular, as the axial position of the piston rod correlates with the material discharged from the storage device, such as the tank, the travel of the piston rod can be used to visualize how much material has already been discharged from the storage device. In order to enhance the visualization, the dispenser comprises an indicator means interacting with the piston rod. The indicator means thus indicates an axial position of the piston rod and therefore also how much material has been dispensed from the storage device.

[0110] According to a second item in accordance with the first item of the second aspect, the indicator means may move together with piston rod in direction of the longitudinal axis. This gives a direct feedback on the travel distance of the piston rod by the indicator means.

[0111] According to a third item in accordance with the first or second items of the second aspect, the piston rod may be rotatable relative to the indicator means and / or the housing. This allows for only the piston rod to be rotated and results in less frictional forces during rotation of the piston rod compared to a scenario in which both of the piston rod and the indicator means are rotated together.

[0112] It is noted that the piston rod can be rotated in a manner as described beforehand, in particular using a rotation mechanism, with the rotation of the piston rod being transferred into an axial movement thereof by using the body nut.

[0113] Furthermore, in order to allow the piston rod to be rotatable relative to the indicator means and / or the housing, the indicator means and the piston rod and / or themedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 20

[0114] housing may be formed as different parts. This allows for an easy production of these parts and an easy assembly thereof.

[0115] According to a fourth item in accordance with any of the other items of the second aspect, the indicator means is preferably rotationally fixed with regard to the housing and / or the piston rod. This allows for the indicator means to move axially together with the piston rod as the piston rod is axially moved, without rotating the indicator means during rotation of the piston rod. The indicator means is thus not rotated out of sight and remains visible for a dispenser user.

[0116] According to a fifth item in accordance with any of the other items of the second aspect, the indicator means may comprise at least one guidance means axially guided by at least one complementary guidance means formed at the housing, in particular the complementary guidance means of the housing extending in direction of the longitudinal axis. Such a configuration of the guidance means safely guides the indicator means during axial movement.

[0117] According to a sixth item in accordance with the fifth item of the second aspect, the guidance means of the indicator means may be formed at an outer circumference of the indicator means, and / or the guidance means of the housing may be formed on an inner side of the side wall. Such kind of guidance means is easy to produce.

[0118] According to a seventh item in accordance with the fifth or sixth items of the second aspect, the guidance means of the indicator means may be a protrusion and the guidance means of the housing may be a groove extending in direction of the longitudinal axis. Additionally or supplementary, the guidance means of the indicator means may be a notch and the guidance means of the housing may be a rib extending in direction of the longitudinal axis. It should be understood that themedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 21

[0119] groove and / or the rib has an axial length that basically corresponds to the axial travel of the piston rod.

[0120] According to an eighth item in accordance with any of the other items of the second aspect, the housing may comprise a window, in particular the window forming a cut-out portion at the side wall of the housing. This enables visualization of the indicator means, in particular if the indicator means is accommodated in the housing. Preferably the window has at least about the same axial length as an axial travel of the indicator means interacting with the piston rod. However, the axial length of the window may be shorter than the axial travel of the indicator means, as long as the indicator means at least in sections remains visible through the window. The window may also be segmented in axial direction such that the indicator means can be only seen in sections, as the indicator means is axially moved.

[0121] The window may be formed as an open cut out portion of the housing. However, for hygienic reasons the window is preferably closed by a transparent material.

[0122] It is also noted that the housing of the dispenser may be formed at least in sections of a transparent material. In particular, that part of the housing accommodating the indicator means may be formed of a transparent material.

[0123] According to a ninth item in accordance with the fifth to eighth items of the second aspect, the window may form a part of the guidance means present at the housing. In other words, the window not only allows for visualization of the indicator means, but also enables guidance of the indicator means. In particular, the window may comprise said groove or rib. Furthermore, the guidance means of the window may transition into a guidance means formed at the remaining part of the housing.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 22

[0124] According to a tenth item in accordance with any of the other items of the second aspect, the dispenser may comprise a spring biasing the piston rod towards the front end of the housing. This can be the auto-prime spring mentioned above. Furthermore, as detailed below, the spring may act on the indicator means, thereby biasing the indicator means against the piston rod. This ensures that the indicator means travels together with the piston rod in axial direction.

[0125] According to an eleventh item in accordance with the tenth item of the second aspect, one side of the spring may bear against the rear end of the housing and the other side of the spring may bear against the indicator means, in particular a radially outwardly protruding collar formed at the indicator means. This ensures that the indicator means is in contact with the piston rod. In particular, this configuration ensures that the indicator means axially travels with the piston rod towards the front end of the dispenser. It is understood that the piston rod and the indicator means are moved against the spring force of the spring as the piston rod is axially moved towards the rear end of the dispenser, i.e. during resetting of the piston rod.

[0126] According to a twelfth item in accordance with the eleventh item of the second aspect, the indicator means may comprise a cover at least partially surrounding the spring in circumferential direction, in particular the cover also at least in sections covering the spring in direction of the longitudinal axis. The cover enhances visibility of the indicator means and may at least in sections hide the spring.

[0127] According to a thirteenth item in accordance with the fifth to twelfth items of the second aspect, the cover may form the guidance means of the indicator means. The cover has therefore a beneficial double function. In particular, the cover may be the protrusion formed on the indicator means guided in the groove formed at the housing and / or the window.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 23

[0128] According to a fourteenth item in accordance with one of the eighth to thirteenth items of the second aspect, only the piston rod may be visible through the window, when the piston rod is in its fully retracted rear end position. That is, the indicator means is hidden by the housing, when the piston rod is in its fully retracted rear end position. This indicates the user that the storage device, such as the tank, is completely full.

[0129] Additionally or supplementary, only the spring may be visible through the window, when the piston rod is in its fully extended front end position. That is, the indicator means is hidden by the housing, when the piston rod is in its fully extended front end position. This indicates the user that the storage device is completely emptied.

[0130] Additionally or supplementary, the indicator means may be visible through the window, when the piston rod is in a position between its fully retracted rear end position and its fully extended front end position.

[0131] According to a fifteenth item in accordance with any of the other items of the second aspect, at least one of the piston rod and indicator means may be coloured, in particular the piston rod and the indicator means being coloured in the same colour or in different colours. Colouring of the piston rod and / or the indicator means enhances visibility thereof.

[0132] It is noted that the dispenser according to the second aspect of the invention may comprise a tank as described with regard to the dispenser of the first aspect of the invention. The tank may be used to store at least one of the materials mentioned with regard to the first aspect of the invention.

[0133] According to a first item of a third aspect of the invention, the invention also concerns an applicator tip, in particular for a dispenser as described in the foregoing,medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 24

[0134] the applicator tip extending between a rear end and a front end along an axial direction, the rear end being open and the front end comprising a closed front wall transitioning into a side wall circumferentially extending about the axial direction, the side wall being radially deflectable with regard to the axial direction and the side wall comprising a connection member formed on an inner side of the side wall.

[0135] At this point it is mentioned that the applicator tip as described with regard to the third aspect may be used in combination with a dispenser of the first aspect and / or the dispenser of the second aspect. In particular, the applicator tip may be connected to a further component of the dispenser, such as for instance a housing of the dispenser and / or a shielding accommodating the housing of the dispenser and / or a material storing tank received in the dispenser. In particular, any of the items of the third aspect may be combined with any of the features described with the regard to the first aspect and / or the items described with regard to the second aspect of the invention.

[0136] It is noted that the axial direction of the applicator tip and the longitudinal axis of the dispenser are aligned at least substantially parallel, preferably coaxially, to each other, when the applicator tip is connected to the further component of the dispenser.

[0137] According to a second item in accordance with the first item of the third aspect, the side wall may be spring elastically radially deflectable. This lets the applicator tip to snap back into its initial shape after being deflected for the purpose of attaching to or detaching from the further component of the dispenser.

[0138] According to a third item in accordance with the first item or second item of the third aspect, the side wall may be formed of an elastic material, in particular a spring elastic material, and / or wherein thickness of the side wall may be chosen tomedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 25

[0139] allow for an elastic deflection, in particular a spring elastic deflection, of the side wall. Such a configuration allows for the side wall to be radially deflectable, in particular spring elastically deflectable.

[0140] According to a fourth item in accordance with any of the other items of the third aspect, the connection member may be a part of a connection assembly selected from one of a snap fit type, a bayonet type or a screw type connection assembly. A bayonet type or a screw type connection assembly would also allow to form the side wall of a more rigid material.

[0141] According to a fifth item in accordance with any of the other items of the third aspect, the connection member may comprise a protrusion protruding radially inwardly from the inner side of the side wall, in particular the protrusion at least in sections, preferably entirely, extending in circumferential direction of the side wall. The protrusion is configured to be received in a corresponding recess of the further component of the dispenser.

[0142] Alternatively or supplementary, the connection member may comprise a recess formed on the inner side of the side wall, in particular the recess at least in sections, preferably entirely, extending in circumferential direction of the side wall. The recess is configured to receive a corresponding protrusion of the further component of the dispenser.

[0143] If the protrusion and / or the recess extends entirely in the circumferential direction, then it is possible to fully rotate the applicator tip about the axial direction. That is the applicator tip can be rotated about 360°.

[0144] Generally, the applicator tip may comprise a passage (also referred to as a conduit) extending through the front wall. Material can be discharged through the passage.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 26

[0145] In particular, according to a sixth item in accordance with any of the other items of the third aspect, the applicator tip may comprise a cannula. That is, the cannula forms the passage extending through the front wall.

[0146] The applicator tip and the cannula can be formed as single piece or may be formed as separate pieces.

[0147] The cannula may be straight or bend or bendable.

[0148] The applicator tip may also comprise a mixer or means for connecting a mixer to the applicator tip. This is beneficial if the dispenser is used to discharge more than one material, in particular at least two materials that upon contact with each other react.

[0149] The passage may extend through a dispense body, preferably an elongated dispense body, of the applicator tip.

[0150] The dispense body may comprise a dispense opening at its distal or front end.

[0151] Preferably, a closure may be releasably coupled to the dispense body to seal the dispense opening.

[0152] Before and after the dispense operation, the closure allows to seal the dispense opening preventing leakage of (remaining) substance from the tank.

[0153] In order to distribute the material discharged through the dispense opening of the dispense body, the dispense body of the applicator tip may comprise a distribution means.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 27

[0154] The dispense body and the distribution means may together form an applicator head of the applicator tip.

[0155] The dispense body and the distribution means may be separate pieces connected to each other or may be a single piece.

[0156] The distribution means allows for an improved application and, in particular, a homogeneous distribution of the discharged material.

[0157] The dispense body and / or the distribution means may be formed of a thermoset material or an elastomer material, in particular a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

[0158] Preferably, the distribution means is made of an elastomer material. This provides a gentle user sensation during a user / dispenser-interaction.

[0159] The thermoset material may comprise a material selected from the group of members consisting of: an epoxy based polymer, a polyester (PE), a polyurethan (PU), a phenol based polymer, a silicone based polymer and combinations of the foregoing.

[0160] The thermoplastic elastomer may comprise a material selected from the group of members consisting of: a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), a thermoplastic olefin elastomer (TPO), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), poly vinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU), polystyrene (PS) and combinations of the foregoing. Such thermoplastic elastomers are flexible and soft in use for, e.g. dental applications and also permit the storage of fluid thereat.

[0161] It is noted that at least the dispense body and / or the distribution means, preferably the entire applicator tip, may be formed of a translucent material.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 28

[0162] A translucent material allows for a visualization of the discharged material through the applicator tip and enables precise dosing of the material.

[0163] For specific applications, in particular for applications using a light-curable material, the dispense body and / or the distribution means, preferably the entire applicator tip, can be made of a material that is only translucent for light of specific wavelengths preventing curing of the material in the applicator tip or parts thereof.

[0164] However, the material of the dispense body and / or the distribution means, preferably the entire applicator tip, may be opaque.

[0165] The distribution means may comprise a brush configuration arranged at or about the dispense opening.

[0166] Such an implementation is quite simple but highly effective.

[0167] Preferably the brush configuration is formed as a brush or a fibre brush.

[0168] In particular, the brush configuration may be a micro bristle brush.

[0169] The bristles of such a micro bristle brush may have a diameter selected in the range of 0.01 to 0.5 mm and / or a length selected in the range of 0.2 to 4 mm.

[0170] The brush may be arranged at or about the dispense opening. In particular, the bristles of the brush may surround the dispense opening.

[0171] At least some of the bristles may be solid.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 29

[0172] Alternatively or supplementary, at least some of the bristles may be hollow, with tips of the hollow bristles being open and respectively acting as dispense openings.

[0173] Such kind of hollow bristles may have a diameter selected in the range of 0.1 to 1 mm and / or a length selected in the range of 0.2 to 30 mm.

[0174] The hollow bristles may be in fluid communication with the passage.

[0175] The brush and bristles may be formed by at least one of a thermoset material, a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), and a thermoplastic olefin elastomer (TPO). In this way a simple to use applicator can be made available.

[0176] The bristles, in particular the hollow bristles, may be of cylindrical shape or may have the shape of a truncated cone.

[0177] Alternatively or supplementary to the brush configuration, the distribution means may comprise a porous configuration.

[0178] Such an application tip can be used to distribute dental or medical fluids in an expedient manner.

[0179] In particular, the porous distribution means may be at least one of a foam, in particular a solid foam, a porous elastomer, a sponge, a wick, a nib, and a pad, such as a cotton pad. In particular, the foam may be a soft or elastic solid foam.

[0180] A porous distribution means may be formed from a foam material such as for instance a polyurethane (PU) foam, a polyethylene (PE) foam, a polystyrene (PS)medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 30

[0181] foam, a polypropylene (PP) foam, a poly vinyl chloride (PVC) foam, a latex foam or a combination of the foregoing.

[0182] Preferably, the porous distribution means comprises an open cell structure.

[0183] The porous distribution means may be arranged at or about the dispense opening.

[0184] It is noted that the distribution means may be formed as a spray nozzle. This allows for an efficient distribution of the discharged material.

[0185] The distribution means may also form a cage.

[0186] Such kind of cage may be formed by a plurality of claws, such as two, three, four, five or more claws, connected at each end to one another and are curved in shape and merge into a tip at a most distal point of the applicator tip.

[0187] At least one of the claws may be hollow and in fluid communication with the passage. The at least one hollow claw may comprise a perforation in fluid communication between the hollow inner side of the hollow claw and the outer side of the claw. The perforation thus acts as a dispense opening for the discharged material.

[0188] It is noted that the applicator tip may comprise a filter element.

[0189] Such kind of filter element may be arranged in the passage, preferably in the passage of the dispense body and / or the cavity at the rear end of the applicator tip.

[0190] However, it is also possible that the applicator tip does not comprise any passage. The applicator tip can then be used as a closure cap.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 31

[0191] According to a seventh item in accordance with any of the other items of the third aspect, the side wall may be arranged radially inwardly with respect to an outer shell wall, the shell wall at least in sections, preferably entirely, circumferentially surrounding the side wall. The shell wall thus protects the side wall.

[0192] According to an eighth item in accordance with the seventh item of the third aspect, the side wall may be more flexible or formed of a more flexible material than the shell wall. The shell wall may then be used as a shielding, whereas the side wall allows for a connection to the further component of the dispenser.

[0193] According to a ninth item in accordance with the seventh or eighth item of the third aspect, a radial gap may be formed between the shell wall and the side wall. This allows for radial deflection of the side wall relative to the shell wall.

[0194] Additionally or supplementary, the side wall and the shell wall respectively may emanate from the front wall; or the shell wall may emanate from the side wall.

[0195] According to a tenth item in accordance with the other items of the third aspect, a plug may extend axially, in particular coaxially, from an inner side of the front wall towards the rear end of the applicator tip. In this regard it is noted that the passage or cannula may not only extend through the front wall, but also through the plug.

[0196] According to another embodiment, the plug may be closed, for example when the applicator tip is used as a closure cap.

[0197] According to an eleventh item of the third aspect, the invention also refers to a system comprising an applicator tip in accordance with any one of the other items of the third aspect and a further component of a dispenser, such as a housing of the dispenser and / or a shielding accommodating the housing of the dispenser and / or a material storing tank received in the dispenser, the further componentmedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 32

[0198] comprising an outlet opening and the further component of the storage system comprising a connection member of the connection assembly, the connection member of the further component is a counter connection member formed at least in sections complementary to the connection member of the applicator tip.

[0199] It is noted that the dispenser can be at least one of the dispensers of the first or second aspects.

[0200] Furthermore, a longitudinal axis of the further component and the axial direction of the applicator tip may be aligned at least substantially parallel, in particular coaxial, to each other when connected.

[0201] According to a twelfth item in accordance with the eleventh item of the third aspect, the applicator tip may be connected to the further component of the dispenser by a predetermined breaking means allowing for a detachment of the applicator tip from the further component of the dispenser upon application of a predetermined breaking force. This allows for a user convenient provision of the further component and the applicator tip. That is, the user can use the applicator tip appropriate for the further component after breaking it away from the further component. This further ensures operational safety as the correct applicator tip is used in combination with the corresponding further component of the dispenser.

[0202] According to a thirteenth item in accordance with the twelfth item of the third aspect, the predetermined breaking means may be formed between an axial end section of the further component of the dispenser, in particular comprising the outlet opening, and the applicator tip, in particular the front wall of the applicator tip, preferably an outer side of the front wall of the applicator tip or an inner side of the front wall of the applicator tip.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 33

[0203] If the predetermined breaking means is formed between the inner side of the front wall of the applicator tip and the axial end section of the further component, the applicator tip can be broken away from the further component for example by twisting the applicator tip about the axial direction. Further twisting of the applicator tip can then bring the applicator tip in a position for further engagement with the further component, such that the applicator tip is ready to use.

[0204] If the predetermined breaking means is formed between an outer side of the front wall of the applicator tip and the axial end section of the further component, then the applicator tip needs to be flipped over and attached to the further component such that the further component is at least partially received in a cavity formed by the front wall and the side wall, thereby rendering the applicator tip ready to use.

[0205] According to a fourteenth item in accordance with the twelfth or thirteenth item of the third aspect, the predetermined breaking means may form a seal closing the outlet opening of the further component of the dispenser, when the applicator tip is connected to the further component of the dispenser by the predetermined breaking means. This may prevent material from escaping from the further component and / or other contamination to enter into the further component, when the applicator tip is attached to the further component by means of the predetermined breaking means.

[0206] According to a fifteenth item in accordance with the tenth item in combination with any of the twelfth to fourteenth items of the third aspect, the plug may extend into the outlet opening of the further component, in particular such that an outer surface of the plug tightly, in particular gas and / or fluid tightly, bears against an inner surface of the outlet opening. This configuration prevents any leakage between the further component and the applicator tip and allows for the material to only dis-medmix Switzerland AG M29317PW0

[0207] 34

[0208] charge through the passage or the cannula if the applicator tip is provided therewith. If the applicator tip forms a closure cap, then the configuration described in the fifteenth item enhances closing and sealing behavior of the applicator tip.

[0209] It is to be noted that the applicator tip as described with regard to the third aspect and the tank may also be formed as a single piece.

[0210] That is, the applicator tip is not connectable to the tank, but is already connected to the tank, such that the applicator tip and the tank together form a single piece.

[0211] In the case of the applicator tip and the tank forming a single piece, the radially deflectable side wall and the connection member formed on the inner side of the side wall as well as a corresponding connection member of the tank may not be required.

[0212] It is further noted that the applicator tip described with regard to the third aspect of the invention may be used to discharge at least one of the materials described in connection with the first aspect of the invention.

[0213] In the following, exemplary embodiments and functions of the present disclosure are described herein in conjunction with the drawings, showing schematically:

[0214] Fig. 1 a perspective explosion view of a multi-use dispenser comprising a shielding;

[0215] Fig. 2 a perspective explosion detail of the multi-use dispenser of Fig. 1 ; Fig. 3 a cross-sectional side view of an assembled multi-use dispenser without an applicator tip;

[0216] Fig. 4 a cross-sectional view of the assembled multi-use dispenser without shielding;

[0217] Fig. 5 a perspective detail of the multi-use dispenser;medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 35

[0218] Fig. 6 a perspective partial cross-sectional detail of the multi-use dispenser; Fig. 7 a cross-sectional detail of the multi-use dispenser, with a clutch in a disengaged state;

[0219] Fig. 8 the cross-sectional detail of Fig. 7, with the clutch in an engaged state;

[0220] Fig. 9a a perspective detail of a tank storable in the multi-use dispenser; Fig. 9b a perspective detail of the clutch of Figs. 7 and 8;

[0221] Fig. 10 a perspective cross-sectional showing an interaction of the parts shown in Figs. 9a and 9b;

[0222] Fig. 11 a semi transparent view of yet another detail of the multi-use dispenser;

[0223] Fig. 12 a perspective view of an applicator tip of the multi-use dispenser; Fig. 13 a perspective view of an outlet section of a tank engageable with the applicator tip of Fig. 12;

[0224] Fig. 14 a longitudinal sectional side view of a multi-use dispenser according to a further embodiment;

[0225] Fig. 15 a partial semi transparent perspective view of parts of the dispenser of Fig. 14;

[0226] Fig. 16 a perspective view of a detail of the some of the parts of Fig. 15; Fig. 17 a longitudinal sectional side view of a first configuration of an applicator tip and a tank for use with a multi-use dispenser;

[0227] Fig. 18 the applicator tip and the tank of Fig. 17 in a second configuration; Fig. 19 a longitudinal sectional view of a further embodiment of an applicator tip in combination with a tank;

[0228] Fig. 20 a longitudinal sectional view of yet a further embodiment of an applicator tip.

[0229] Fig. 21 a longitudinal sectional view of even a further embodiment of an applicator tip,

[0230] Fig. 22 a side view of a rear part of a dispenser comprising an indicator

[0231] means;medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 36

[0232] Fig. 23 a perspective view showing a detail of the indicator means of Fig. 22 interacting with a piston rod and a spring;

[0233] Fig. 24 a perspective detail of a further exemplary embodiment of an applicator tip to be used with the multi-use dispenser;

[0234] Fig. 25 a perspective detail of yet a further exemplary embodiment of an applicator tip to be used with the multi-use dispenser;

[0235] Fig. 26 a perspective detail of a yet another exemplary embodiment of an applicator tip to be used with the multi-use dispenser;

[0236] Fig. 27 a side view of a detail of yet another exemplary embodiment of an applicator tip to be used with the multi-use dispenser;

[0237] Fig. 28 a front view of the applicator tip of Fig. 27;

[0238] Fig. 29 a perspective detail of another exemplary embodiment of an applicator tip to be used with the multi-use dispenser;

[0239] Fig. 30 a perspective detail of a further exemplary embodiment of an applicator tip to be used with the multi-use dispenser;

[0240] Fig. 31 a perspective detail of even a further exemplary embodiment of an applicator tip to be used with the multi-use dispenser;

[0241] Fig. 32 a perspective view of yet a further applicator tip to be used with the multi-use dispenser;

[0242] Fig. 33 a cross-sectional view of the applicator tip of Fig. 32;

[0243] Fig. 34 a perspective view of a further embodiment of a tank;

[0244] Fig. 35 a perspective view of yet a further embodiment of a tank;

[0245] Fig. 36 a perspective detail of a rear side of a tank;

[0246] Fig. 37 a perspective view of a support structure capable of receiving a tank; Fig. 38 a side view of the support structure of Fig. 37; and

[0247] Fig. 39 a side view of the support structure of Fig. 37 opposite to the side view of Fig. 38.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 37

[0248] 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.

[0249] 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.

[0250] Figs. 1 to 13 show a first embodiment of a dispenser 10 and advantageous details thereof.

[0251] 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.

[0252] 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. Furthermore, the shielding 14 may be formed by at least two parts connected or connectable parallel to the along the longitudinal direction.

[0253] Furthermore, the housing 12 is configured to at least partly receive a tank 16 therein.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 38

[0254] The housing 12, the shielding 14 and the tank 16 each extend into a longitudinal direction defining a longitudinal axis L.

[0255] 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 118 formed on an inner wall of the housing 12. The L-shaped groove comprises an axial portion 118a extending in direction of the longitudinal axis L and a circumferential portion 118b extending in a circumferential direction of the inner wall of the housing 12.

[0256] It is noted that instead of forming the groove 118 in the inner wall of the housing 12, the groove 118 may also be formed at the support structure 26, as described in more detail below with regard to Figs. 37 to 39.

[0257] 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 118 present in an inner wall of the housing 12.

[0258] 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.

[0259] 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.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 39

[0260] 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 118b of the L-shaped groove 118.

[0261] 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 118a of the groove 118. 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 118 (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.

[0262] The tank 16 is configured to store a material, such as the ones discussed above.

[0263] 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.

[0264] Furthermore, a front part of the housing 12 of the dispenser 10 may also refer to that part of the housing 10 into which the tank 16 is inserted to receive the tank 16 at least partially within the housing 10.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 40

[0265] 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.

[0266] 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 13. Further aspects of an applicator tip will also be described with regard to Figs. 17 to 21.

[0267] The applicator tip 18 serves as a dispending outlet of the dispenser 10. However, the applicator tip 18 may be also configured as closure cap, such that when attached to the housing 12, the shielding 14 and in particular to the tank 16 material is retained.

[0268] 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.

[0269] The cannula 20 may be already bent (Fig. 19) 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.

[0270] Now turning to Figs. 3 and 5 further details of the dispenser 10 will be described with reference to the other drawings.

[0271] 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.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 41

[0272] 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.

[0273] 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.

[0274] 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.

[0275] 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.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 42

[0276] 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.

[0277] 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.

[0278] 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.

[0279] 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.

[0280] 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 onemedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 43

[0281] 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).

[0282] 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.

[0283] 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.

[0284] 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.

[0285] 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.

[0286] 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.

[0287] 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 tomedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 44

[0288] 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.

[0289] 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.

[0290] 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.

[0291] 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.

[0292] 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.

[0293] 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 16medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 45

[0294] 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.

[0295] 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.

[0296] 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.

[0297] 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).

[0298] 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.

[0299] 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.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 46

[0300] 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.

[0301] 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.

[0302] 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.

[0303] 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.

[0304] 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.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 47

[0305] 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.

[0306] 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.

[0307] 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.

[0308] 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.

[0309] 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.

[0310] 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.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 48

[0311] 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.

[0312] 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.

[0313] 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.

[0314] 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.

[0315] 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.

[0316] 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 84medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 49

[0317] 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.

[0318] 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.

[0319] 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.

[0320] 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).

[0321] 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.

[0322] 10).

[0323] 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.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 50

[0324] 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.

[0325] 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.

[0326] Engagement of the piston rod 50 with the plunger 58 of the tank 16 and dispense operation is achieved as follows.

[0327] 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.

[0328] 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.

[0329] 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 variousmedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 51

[0330] 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.

[0331] Fig. 11 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.

[0332] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 11 , 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.

[0333] 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.

[0334] 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.

[0335] 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 firstmedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 52

[0336] coding means is configured in a point symmetrical manner with regard to a second coding means of the same set of coding means.

[0337] 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.

[0338] 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.

[0339] 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.

[0340] 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.

[0341] Assembly of the tank 16 in the housing 12 functions as follows.

[0342] 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. 11). By twisting the tank 16, the protrusion 106 is guidedmedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 53

[0343] 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.

[0344] 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.

[0345] 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.

[0346] Now referring to Figs. 12 and 13 an advantageous connection mechanism for the connection of the applicator tip 18 to the tank 16 is described.

[0347] As can be seen from Figs. 12 and 13, the applicator tip 18 comprises a protrusion 110 that upon connection to the tank is guided in a guide track 112 formed on the outlet side of the tank 16. The protrusion 110 and the guide track 112 together form a bayonet type connecting means.

[0348] It is noted that the applicator tip 18 may also comprise a connection member 206 for connecting the applicator tip 18 to the tank 16 or another component of the dispenser 10, such as the housing 12 or the shielding 14, as is described with greater detail below with regard to Fig 33. Preferably, the tank 16 or the other componentmedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 54

[0349] of the dispenser 10 may then be configured in a respective manner as described with regard to the tank 16 shown in Figs. 34 and 35.

[0350] The protrusion 110 is elastically deflectable in radial direction with regard to the longitudinal axis L.

[0351] 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.

[0352] 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.

[0353] As can be seen from Fig. 13, the guide track 112 comprises a first portion 112a 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.

[0354] A second portion 112b of the guide track 112 extends into a direction circumferentially surrounding the longitudinal axis L. The first portion 112a and the second portion 112b transition into each other.

[0355] Furthermore, a detent 114 is formed in the guide track 112 that prevents unwanted detachment of the applicator tip 18 from the tank 16. However, upon applying a predefined force, the protrusion 110 can be moved over and past the detent 114. 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.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 55

[0356] In particular, the detent 114 hinders that the protrusion 110 guided in the circumferentially extending second portion 112b is moved towards the first portion 112a such that the applicator tip 18 is accidentally detached from the tank 16 during rotational movement of the applicator tip 18.

[0357] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 13, the detent 114 is formed in the of the second portion 112b and defines a starting point of the second portion 112b. In particular, the detent 114 is formed in the second portion 112b, where the first portion 112a transitions into the second portion 112b.

[0358] Furthermore, the second portion 112b ends at a stopping member 116. The stopping member 116 separates the end of the second portion 112b from the first portion 112a of the guide track 112.

[0359] As can be seen from Fig. 13 the part of the stopping member 116 facing the first portion 112a lies flush with the first portion 112a and has the same inclination with regard to the longitudinal axis L like the first portion 112a.

[0360] 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.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 56

[0361] 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.

[0362] The interference means 124 causes an interference fit between the tank 16 and the applicator tip 18, in particular when fully assembled.

[0363] 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.

[0364] 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.

[0365] Additionally or alternatively, an interference fit can also be created by the interaction of the protrusion 110 with the second portion 112b of the guide track 112. This can be achieved for example if a width of the protrusion 110 as seen in the longitudinal axis L is slightly larger than a width of the second portion 122b of the guide track 112 as also seen in the longitudinal axis L.

[0366] In this context, as can be seen from Fig. 13, the width of the first portion 112a 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 110 may be sized as to basically correspond to the dimensions of the first and second portions 112a, 112b of the guide track 112.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 57

[0367] According to another embodiment basically corresponding to the one just described, but not shown, the detent 114 is formed in the first portion 112a of the guide track 112 instead of the second portion 112b. In particular, in the end part of the first portion 112a that transitions into the second portion 112b. Furthermore, the detent 114 of this embodiment may lie flush with the second portion 112b.

[0368] Such kind of configuration allows for a rotational angle of nearly 360°, which is only limited by the circumferential dimension of the stopping member 116. Hence, the applicator tip 18 can be rotated to an even larger extent.

[0369] According to still another embodiment not shown, the detent 114 may also be formed in that region in which the first portion 112a transitions into the second portion 112b. It is to be understood, that additionally at least one further detent 114 may be also formed in at least one of the first and second portions 112a, 112b.

[0370] Now with reference to Figs. 14 to 16 a further advantageous embodiment (second embodiment) of a dispenser 10 is described. Unless described to the contrary, the functioning of the dispenser 10 of the further embodiment corresponds to the functioning of the dispenser 10 described beforehand. In the following, the dispenser 10 of the second embodiment is described with continued reference to the dispenser 10 of the first embodiment and emphasize is put on the basic differences.

[0371] In Fig. 14 and 15 the dispenser 10 of the second embodiment is depicted without any shielding 14. However, the dispenser 10 may comprise a shielding 14 as described above with regard to the first embodiment of the dispenser 10.

[0372] Furthermore, in the dispenser 10 of the further embodiment, the housing 12 of the dispenser 10 is made of multiple parts and comprises a front housing part 12a and a rear housing part 12b which facilitates the assembly of the dispenser 10 and itsmedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 58

[0373] parts. It is noted that the housing 12 of the dispenser 10 according to the second embodiment may be also formed as a single piece.

[0374] In order to initiate dispense action, the dispenser 10 of the second embodiment comprises a single-arm lever 24. The lever 24 has the function of a dispense activator 22, wherein the arm of the lever 24 acts as a push arm 28 or push button 30 activatable by a user for dispense action.

[0375] The lever 24 is pivotable about a pivot axis P aligned at least substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the dispenser 10.

[0376] On its base 128 the lever 24 is bifurcated, such that the housing 12 is received between two tines 130 of the bifurcated base 128.

[0377] Furthermore, as can be seen best from Fig. 15, the side wall of the housing 12 comprises two diametrically opposed circular break throughs 132 through which the lever 24 can interact with a transmission means 134 used for transferring a rotational movement of the lever 24 onto a drive tube 136 rotationally accommodated in the housing 12.

[0378] For this purpose, the lever 24 comprises on respective inner sides of the tines 130 toothed engagement means (not visible) that interact with corresponding complementary toothed engagement means 138 formed on respective outward facing sides of respective drive plates 140 of the transmission means 134 (Fig. 16). This rotationally fixes the lever 24 to the transmission means 134 to ensure that a rotation of the lever 24 about the pivot axis P results in a corresponding rotation of the transmission means 134 about the pivot axis P.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 59

[0379] As can be seen from Fig. 16, the toothed engagement means 138 of the transmission means 134 are arranged radially about the pivot axis P and define a fulcrum 24a of the lever 24.

[0380] The lever 24 is fixed to the transmission means 134 by a screw type or a bolt type connection with the screw or bolt coaxially aligned with the pivot axis P. However, the lever 24 may be also connected to the transmission means 134 by other connection types, such as for example using an adhesive.

[0381] In the present embodiment, the transmission means 134 comprises two drive plates 140 capable of a counter directed rotational movement about the pivot axis P, as is depicted by arrows C1 and C2 in Fig. 16. The counter directed rotational movement of the drive plates 140 is induced by a rotation of the lever 24 about the pivot axis P.

[0382] In order to enhance torsional stiffness of the transmission means 134, the drive plates 140 are connected to each other by a pair of tubular hollow shafts 142 extending at least substantially parallel to the pivot axis P. The shafts 142 are respectively radially off-set with regard to the pivot axis P in order to avoid collision with the drive tube during dispense operation.

[0383] Furthermore, each of the drive plates 140 comprise on an inner side, i.e. a side opposite to the side comprising the engagement means 138 for the lever 24, a bevel gear 144.

[0384] As can be seen from Fig. 16 the respective bevel gears 144 face in opposite directions. In particular, the teeth of the respective bevel gears 144 face in opposite axial directions, i.e. the teeth of one bevel gear 144 face towards the front end 11 of the dispenser 10, whereas the teeth of the other bevel gear 144 face towards the rear end 13 of the dispenser 10.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 60

[0385] The bevel gears 144 of the transmission means 134 mesh with corresponding bevel gears 146 formed on an outer side wall of a drive tube 136. The bevel gears 146 of the drive tube 136 are formed on oppositely averted sides of the outer side surface of the side wall of the drive tube 136. Furthermore, like the bevel gears 144 of the transmission means 134, the bevel gears 146 of the drive tube 136 face in opposite directions. In particular, in the present embodiment, the teeth of the bevel gears 146 face in opposite axial directions, i.e. the teeth of one bevel gear 146 face towards the front end 11 of the dispenser 10, whereas the teeth of the other bevel gear 146 face towards the rear end 13 of the dispenser 10.

[0386] Hence, when the drive plates 140 are rotated by the lever 24, the counter directed bevel gears 144 formed thereon rotate in opposite directions, thereby driving the counter directed bevel gears 146 formed on the drive tube 136 in opposite directions, which ultimately results in a rotation of the drive tube 136 in a first rotation direction (arrow R in Fig. 16).

[0387] In principle, a rotational movement can be also transmitted onto the drive tube 136 by using just one drive plate 140 configured in a manner as described above. However, using two drive plates 140 on opposite sides of the drive tube 136 allows for a more balanced force transmission onto the drive tube 136.

[0388] It is noted that a rotation of the drive tube 136 taken alone, i.e. without further parts of the dispenser 10, does not rotate the piston rod 50, as the drive tube 136 receives the piston rod 50 in a slideable non-engaged manner in a passage 148 axially extending through the drive tube 136.

[0389] As the piston rod 50 does not rotate with the drive tube 136, the drive tube 136 is allowed to rotate back into its initial position for further dispensing action without rotating the piston rod 50 backwards.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 61

[0390] Backwards rotation of the drive tube 136 in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction is initiated by the spring force of a return spring 150. In fact, as the drive tube 136 is rotated in the first rotation direction, the return spring 150 is loaded. Thus, when the lever 24 is released the return spring 150 unloads and rotates the drive tube 136 back into its initial position. Due to the interaction of the drive tube 136 with the lever 24 via the transmission means 134, the lever 24 is also erected for further dispense action.

[0391] In the present embodiment, the return spring 150 is a torsional spring that circumferentially surrounds the drive tube 136.

[0392] It is noted that additionally or supplementary, the lever 24 can be pushed against the spring force of another return spring, such as a compression spring radially arranged between the outer side of the housing 12 and the inner side of the lever 24. As the lever 24 is released such kind of spring tends to expand, thereby erecting the lever 24 into its initial position. Again, as the lever 24 interacts with the drive tube 136 via the transmission means 134, the return rotation of the lever 24 into its initial position results in a rotation of the drive tube 136 in a direction opposite to the first rotation direction, i.e. the second rotation direction.

[0393] Furthermore, it is also possible to use a compression spring that is expanded during pushing of the lever 24 and that retracts as the lever 24 is released to rotate the lever 24 back into its initial position and also to rotate the drive tube 136 backwards.

[0394] In the present embodiment, the spring force of the torsional return spring 150 is adjustable. This is achieved by a preload means 152 inserted into the housing from its rear end. The preload means 152 comprises a spiral groove extending about the longitudinal axis L and receiving the rear end of the torsional returnmedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 62

[0395] spring 150. The front end of the torsional return spring 150 bears against a washer 154 which in turn bears against a collar 156 formed by the rearwards facing bevel gear 146 of the drive tube 136. By turning the preload means 152 about the longitudinal axis L, the torsional return spring 150 is expanded more or less, thereby changing the return force of the torsional return spring 150. A desired spring force can be fixed by tightening the preload means 152 to the housing, for example by using a screw.

[0396] It is noted that in the present embodiment, the preload means 152 closes an axial rear end opening of the drive tube passage 148.

[0397] However, it is also possible to produce the dispenser without the preload means 152, i.e. without the possibility to adjust the spring force of the return spring 150. The return spring 150 has then a predefined fixed return force. In this case the axial rear end opening of the drive tube passage 148 may be closed by an inner end surface 64 of the rear end of the housing 12.

[0398] Furthermore, it is also possible that the axial rear end of the passage 148 of the drive tube 136 may be closed instead of comprising an open axial rear end.

[0399] In either case, closing the rear end of the drive tube’s passage 148 prevents that the piston rod 50 slides out of the drive tube 136 from its rear end.

[0400] In contrast to the rear end of the drive tube 136, the axial front end of the drive tube 136 is open which allows the piston rod 50 to move axially out of the passage 148 of the drive tube 136 towards the dispenser’s front end 11 for dispense action.

[0401] Axial advancement of the piston rod 50 is achieved likewise to the axial advancement of the piston rod 50 as described with regard to the first embodiment, i.e. bymedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 63

[0402] a rotational movement of a drive nut 34 in combination with a threaded engagement with a rotationally fixed body nut 54.

[0403] In particular, in the second embodiment of the dispenser 10, rotational movement of the drive tube 136 is transferred onto the drive nut 34 by means of a drive ratchet 158.

[0404] The drive ratchet radially 158 surrounds the drive tube 136. Furthermore, the drive ratchet 158 is rotationally locked with regard to the drive tube 136, but allowed to axially move with regard to the drive tube 136. In the present embodiment this is achieved by a splined connection between the drive ratchet 158 and the drive tube 136 with splines 160 formed on an outer surface of the drive tube 136 and splines 162 formed on an inner side of the drive ratchet 158, the splines 160, 162 extending at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L.

[0405] The splines 160 of the drive tube 136 are closed at the rear end, thereby limiting an axial travel of the drive ratchet 158 towards the rear end.

[0406] Furthermore, the splined features 160 of the drive tube 136 are formed on a shoulder 164 radially protruding from the side wall of the drive tube 136.

[0407] The axial front end of the shoulder 164 acts as a counter bearing for a drive ratchet spring 166 that biases the drive ratchet 158 towards the front end 11 of the dispenser 10 against the drive nut 34. This allows for ratchet teeth 168 formed on an axial front end of the drive ratchet 158 to engage with corresponding ratchet teeth 170 formed on an axial rear end of the drive nut 34. It is mentioned that the drive ratchet spring 166 extends axially between the axial front end of the shoulder 164 formed on the drive tube 136 and the drive nut 34.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 64

[0408] The drive ratchet spring 166 is configured as a compression spring and circumferentially surrounds the drive tube 136.

[0409] The ratchet teeth 168, 170 of the drive ratchet 158 and the drive nut 34 interact in a manner as to engage with each other to rotate the drive nut 34 in the first direction as the drive tube 136 is rotated in the first direction. That is, the drive nut 34 and the drive tube 136 rotate together in the first direction. In a rearward rotation, i.e. in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, the ratchet teeth 168, 170 slide past each other without any rotational transmission. The drive ratchet 158 is then axially moved against the force of the drive ratchet spring 166, thereby allowing the ratchet teeth 168, 170 passing by each other.

[0410] The drive nut 34 comprises a further set of ratchet teeth 172 interacting with ratchet teeth 174 formed on a counter ratchet 176.

[0411] The counter ratchet 176 like the drive ratchet 158 is axially movable. However, the counter ratchet 176 is rotationally fixed with regard to the dispenser housing 12. This is achieved by a splined connection between the counter ratchet 176 and the housing 12 with respective splines 178, 180 of the counter ratchet 176 and the housing 12 respectively extending in axial direction. In particular, the splines 178 of the counter ratchet 176 are formed on an outer surface of the counter ratchet 176, whereas the splines 180 of the housing 12 formed on the inner side of the side wall of the housing 12.

[0412] Furthermore, the counter ratchet 176 at least in sections radially surrounds the drive ratchet 158. Consequently, the ratchet teeth 172 of the drive nut 34 interacting with the counter ratchet 176 are off-set radially outwardly with regard to the ratchet teeth 170 of the drive nut 34 interacting with the drive ratchet 158 (Fig. 14).medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 65

[0413] Furthermore, the ratchet teeth 174 of the counter ratchet 176 are formed on an axial front side of the counter ratchet 176, whereas the corresponding ratchet teeth 172 of the drive nut 34 are formed on the axial rear side of the drive nut 34.

[0414] In order to engage the ratchet teeth 172, 174 of the drive nut 34 and the counter ratchet 176, the counter ratchet 176 is biased towards the drive nut 34 by a counter ratchet spring 182. For this purpose, the counter ratchet spring 182 bears against the counter ratchet 176 on one side and on the other axial side against a collar 184 formed on the drive tube 136. The collar 184 radially extends with regard to the splines 160 formed on the drive tube 136. However, the counter ratchet spring 182 may also bear against a collar protruding radially inwardly from the inner side of the side wall of the housing 12.

[0415] The counter ratchet spring 182 is formed as a compression spring.

[0416] The counter ratchet 176 blocks a rotation of the drive nut 34 in the second direction opposite to the first direction during resetting of the piston rod 50, i.e. a movement of the piston rod 50 towards the rear end, for instance as the tank 16 is inserted into the dispenser 10.

[0417] The blocking direction of the counter ratchet 176 and the drive ratchet 158 are effective in the same direction.

[0418] Furthermore, like in the dispenser 10 of the first embodiment, in the dispenser 10 of this embodiment the body nut 54 is rotationally locked, when the tank 16 is fully inserted into the dispenser, as described above with regard to the first embodiment.

[0419] Rotational locking of the body nut 54 is achieved by means of a clutch 56, in a similar manner as described with regard to the first embodiment.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 66

[0420] In the present embodiment, the clutch 56 is axially movable and in form fit engagement with an insert 186 inserted into the housing 12, the insert 186 rotationally fixed with respect to the housing 12 and the insert 186 circumferentially surrounding the clutch 56.

[0421] In particular, the clutch 56 comprises axially extending splines 188 on an outer surface of the clutch 56 interacting with corresponding axially extending splines 190 formed in an inner surface of the insert 186. The clutch 56 can therefore be moved in axial direction.

[0422] It is noted that the dispenser 10 can also be formed without the insert 186. In this case, the splines interacting with the splines 188 of the clutch 56 are formed on an inner side wall of the housing 12. In this regard, the clutch 56 is axially moved against the spring force of a clutch spring 192 from the disengaged state into the engaged state. That is the clutch spring 192 disengages the clutch 56 from the body nut 54 as the tank 16 is removed, thus allowing the body nut 54 to freely rotate.

[0423] However, in the engaged state of the clutch 56, engagement means 76 of the clutch 56 engage with corresponding engagement means 74 of the body nut 54, in a dog clutch like manner.

[0424] As mentioned above, the clutch 56 is engaged by a full axial insertion of the tank 16 into the dispenser. This axial movement of the tank 16 is transmitted onto the clutch 56 by a reactor plate 194 axially arranged between the tank 16 and the clutch 56.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 67

[0425] In a disengaged state of the clutch 56, the body nut 54 is allowed to freely rotate. The piston rod 50 can then be pushed rearwards to the rear end 13 of the dispenser 10 for further dispense action.

[0426] Furthermore, the insert 186 is also used to prevent an axial movement of the drive nut 34 towards the front end 11. For this purpose, the insert 186 forms a radially inwardly projecting neck 196. The neck 196 is formed at the rear side of the insert 186 and acts as a counter bearing for the drive nut 34 such that the drive nut 34 bears against the rear side of the insert 186. That is the rear side of the insert 186 hinders that the drive nut 34 from being axially moved towards the front end 11 of the dispenser 10, for instance by the force of the drive ratchet spring 166 and / or the counter ratchet spring 182.

[0427] The insert 186 and its neck 196 comprise an axial passage 198 for the piston rod 50.

[0428] It is noted that a corresponding neck can be formed on the housing 12 such as to extend radially inwardly from an inner side of the housing’s side wall if the dispenser 10 does not comprise the insert 186.

[0429] Like in the dispenser 10 of the first embodiment, the piston rod 50 is pushed rearwards against the spring force of a spring 60 during insertion of the tank. The spring force of the spring 60 therefore urges the piston rod 50 towards the front end, thereby enabling the piston rod 50 to be engaged with a plunger 58 (Fig. 4) inserted in the tank 16. This allows for direct dispensing from the tank 16 or at least after only a few operational clicks of the lever 24 even if the tank 16 is installed or reinstalled that was partly emptied or originally only partly filled.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 68

[0430] The spring 60 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.

[0431] Like in the dispenser 10 of the first embodiment, the spring 60 of the dispenser of this embodiment 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 preload means 152.

[0432] However, the other end may also bear against the housing 12, in particular an inner end surface 64 of the housing 12, as shown in Figs. 4 and 7, if the dispenser does not comprise the preload means 152.

[0433] Furthermore, the spring 60 may bear against a closed rear end of the passage 148, if the rear end of the drive tube’s passage 148 is closed.

[0434] The spring 60 as well as the transmitter element 62 are both received in the passage 148 of the drive tube 136, as can be seen best from Fig. 14. This allows for a more compact setup of the dispenser 10.

[0435] The transmitter element 62 of this embodiment is formed as a pin with a T-like shape as seen in the longitudinal sectional view of Fig. 14.

[0436] Like the transmitter element 62 of the dispenser 10 of the first embodiment, the transmitter element 62 of the dispenser 10 of this embodiment has a cavity 66 to receive the rear end of the piston rod 50 (Fig. 14). The cavity 66 has the shape of a hollow cone. This reduces frictional forces with regard to the piston rod 50, in particular if the piston rod 50 also has a cone shaped rear end interacting with the cavity 66. In this regard it is noted that the cone shaped rear end of the piston rodmedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 69

[0437] 50 may have a smaller opening angle as the cone shaped cavity 66, as can be seen for example in Figs. 4, 6 and 14.

[0438] The transmitter element 62 also acts as a stopper for the rearwards travel of the piston rod 50, as the rear tip of the pin opposite to the cavity 66 contacts the preload means 152 or inner rear side wall 64 of the housing 12, when the piston rod 50 is fully retracted.

[0439] Now turning to Figs. 17 to 21 further embodiments of an applicator tip 18 are described.

[0440] Each of the applicator tips 18 shown in Figs. 17 to 21 extends between a rear end and a front end along an axial direction, i.e. a longitudinal axis L of the applicator tip 18. The front end comprises a closed front wall 200 that transitions into a side wall 202 circumferentially extending about the axial direction L.

[0441] The front wall 200 and the side wall 202 define a cavity 204 configured to receive a further component of the dispensing system, such as for instance the tank 16, the housing 12 or the shielding 14, through the open rear end of the applicator tip 18.

[0442] In the following the applicator tip 18 will be described as an applicator tip 18 connectable or connected to a tank 16. However, the same description also applies to a connection of the applicator tip 18 to the housing 12 and / or the shielding 14.

[0443] The side wall 202 is radially deflectable with regard to the axial direction L and further comprises a connection member 206 formed on an inner side of the side wall 202.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 70

[0444] In the embodiments shown on Figs. 17 to 21 the connection member 206 is formed as a part of a snap fit connection type.

[0445] Such kind of snap fit connection can be achieved by the side wall 202 being formed of a spring elastic material and / or by choosing the side wall thickness to allow for a spring elastic deflection of the side wall 202. It is noted that by choosing the side wall thickness to allow for spring elastic deflection thereof, the side wall 202 can be either formed of a spring elastic material or of a rigid material, as long as the side wall of the applicator tip 18 can be spring elastically deflected.

[0446] It is noted, the connection member 206 of the applicator tips 18 shown in Figs. 17 to 21 may be also formed as a part of a bayonet type or a screw type connection assembly. In particular, the connection member 206 may be also formed in a manner as described with regard to Figs. 12 and 13.

[0447] Now turning back to Figs. 17 to 21 , the connection member 206 of the applicator tips 18 shown in these figures is formed as a protrusion that entirely extends on the inner side wall in circumferential direction in a ring like manner. It is noted that the connection member 206 may also be formed as a recess at least partially extending in circumferential direction.

[0448] The corresponding connection member 208 of the tank 16 is formed fully complementary to the connection member 206 of the applicator tip 18, i.e. as a ring like recess.

[0449] Furthermore, the applicator tip 18 may comprise a plug 210 that axially extends from an inner side of the front wall towards the rear end of the applicator tip.

[0450] In a connected state, in which the tank 16 is received in the cavity 204 of the applicator tip 18, the plug 210 extends into an outlet opening 212 of the tank 16, suchmedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 71

[0451] that an outer surface of the plug 210 tightly bears against an inner surface of the outlet opening 212, as shown for instance in Fig. 18.

[0452] Furthermore, if the is front wall 200 as well as the plug 210 are closed, leakage from the tank 16 is prevented if the plug 210 bears against the tank’s opening 212, in particular if connected in a fluid tight manner. Even further, if the plug 210 bears against the opening 212 of the tank 16 in a gas tight manner, gas transfer is hindered or at least reduced such that premature degradation of the material stored in the tank 16 is prevented. In either case, the applicator tip 18 acts as a closure cap.

[0453] A fluid tight and / or gas tight applicator tip 18 is achieved if the plug 210 is formed as a cone or truncated cone, as shown for instance in Figs. 17, 18 or 20. However, for the same purpose the plug 210 may also have other shapes, such as a cylindrical shape, as long as the side wall fluid tightly and / or gas tightly bears against the opening 212 of the tank 16.

[0454] Furthermore, as becomes apparent from Fig. 19, instead of being closed, the plug 210 and the front wall 200 of the applicator tip 18 may comprise a passage 214 allowing for discharging of a material stored in the tank 16.

[0455] Furthermore, generally speaking, the passage 214 axially extending through the plug 210 and the front wall may 200 receive a cannula 20 formed separately with regard to the applicator tip 18. However, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 19, the passage 214 is formed by the cannula 20 being an integral part of the applicator tip 18. That is, the cannula 20 and the applicator tip 18 are formed as a single piece. In this regard it is noted that the cannula 20 may be a straight cannula, a bendable cannula or a bent cannula as has been detailed above.

[0456] Even further, the applicator tip 18 can be connected to the tank 16 by a predetermined breaking means 216, thereby forming a storage system. The predeterminedmedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 72

[0457] breaking means 216 allows for the detachment of the applicator tip 18 from the tank 16 upon applying a predetermined breaking force.

[0458] In the present embodiment, the predetermined breaking means 216 is formed between the tank 16 and a side of the front wall 200 that when the tank 16 is received in the cavity 204 of the applicator tip 18 forms an outer side of the applicator tip 18. That is, after breaking the applicator tip 18 away from the tank 16, the applicator tip 18 can be flipped over by a rotation of about 180° about an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L, i.e. the axial direction of the applicator tip 18, and can then be used as a closure cap for the tank 16. However, it is noted that the front wall 200 of the applicator tip 18 can be configured to be pierceable, to form an outlet passage 214 to allow the applicator tip 18 to be used for discharge action.

[0459] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 17, the longitudinal axis L of the applicator tip 18 and the longitudinal axis L of the tank 16 are coaxially aligned, when connected by the predetermined breaking means 216. Furthermore, in Fig. 16, after flipping the applicator tip 18 over and reattaching the applicator tip 18 to the tank 16 by means of the connection assembly, the longitudinal axis L of the applicator tip 18 and the longitudinal axis L of the tank 16 are again coaxially aligned.

[0460] It is further noted that, according to another embodiment, the predetermined breaking means 216 can be also formed between an inner side of the front wall 200 and the tank 16. In such configuration no flipping over of the applicator tip 18 is needed. The applicator tip 18 can be just twisted against the tank 16 to break off the predetermined breaking means 216. Further twisting of the applicator tip 18 can turn the applicator tip 18 in a position for engagement with the tank 16 as described above. It is noted that such kind of applicator tip 18 can also be pierced to form an outlet passage 214 for discharge action.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 73

[0461] In either way, the predetermined breaking means 216 can form a seal that closes the outlet opening 212 of the tank 16, when the applicator tip 18 is connected to the tank 16 by the predetermined breaking means 216. For instance, the predetermined breaking means 216 may circumferentially surround the outlet opening 212 of the tank 16 and together with the front wall 200 of the applicator tip 18 sealingly closes the outlet opening 212 of the tank 16.

[0462] Hence, the tank 16 is provided with the appropriate applicator tip 18, wherein the opening 212 of the tank 16 is closed as long as the applicator tip 18 is not detached by breaking off the predetermined breaking means 216. In other words, the tank 16 can be provided with the appropriate applicator tip 18 and at the same time ensures fluid tight and / or gas tight closure of the tank 16 as long as the applicator tip 18 is connected to the tank 16 by the predetermined breaking means 216.

[0463] It is to be understood that the predetermined breaking means 216 breaks such that when the applicator tip 18 is reattached to the tank 16 by means of the connection assembly comprising the connection members 206, 208 the applicator tip 18 tightly sits on the tank 16, without the predetermined breaking means 216 forming any substantial gap between the to the front wall 200 of the applicator tip 18 and the front end of the tank 16. However, if the plug 210 is sufficiently long enough to tightly engage with the outlet opening 212 of the tank 16, then residues of the predetermined breaking means 216 may remain on the front end of the tank 16.

[0464] Fig. 20 and 21 show applicator tips 18 in which the elastically deflectable side wall 202 is surrounded by a further outer shell wall 218.

[0465] The shell wall 218 entirely surrounds the flexible side wall 202 in circumferential direction.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 74

[0466] Furthermore, the shell wall 218 is more rigid than the side wall 202. In the present embodiment this is achieved by providing a wall thickness of the shell wall 218 thicker than the side wall 202. However, for the same purpose, the shell wall 218 may additionally or supplementary be formed of a material more rigid than a material of the side wall 202.

[0467] The shell wall 218 is used to avoid unwanted detachment of the applicator tip 18 as the shell wall 218 is less easy deflectable in comparison to the side wall 202 comprising the connection member 206.

[0468] As can be seen from Figs 20 and 21 , a radial gap 220 is formed between the side wall 202 and the shell wall 218 thus allowing for a radial deflection of the side wall 202 during attachment or detachment of the applicator tip 18.

[0469] The radial gap 220 is formed by flaring the shell wall 218 towards the rear end of the applicator tip 18.

[0470] Furthermore, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 20 the side wall 202 and the shell wall 218 both respectively emanate from the front wall 200. However, depending on the application, the shell wall 218 can also emanate from the side wall 202.

[0471] In Fig. 21 , the side wall 202 is formed on an insert 222 inserted into the cavity 204 of the applicator tip 18 and wherein the shell wall 218 emanates from the front wall 200. The side wall 202 in this embodiment is formed as a tubular hollow cylinder.

[0472] The side wall 202 and the shell wall 218 of the embodiment shown in Fig. 21 are connected by connection means 224 that in the present embodiment are formed as snap in connection means 224. Such kind of connection is beneficial due to the spring elastic configuration of the side wall 202. However, the side wall 202 can bemedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 75

[0473] also connected to the shell wall 218 by other connection types, for instance using an adhesive.

[0474] When the side wall 202 and the shell wall 218 of the applicator tip 18 of Fig. 21 are assembled, the shell wall 218 and the side wall 202 like in the embodiment shown in Fig. 20 both emanate from the front wall 200.

[0475] It is noted that the applicator tips 18 of Figs. 17 to 21 may also comprise a connection member 206 for connecting the applicator tip 18 to the tank 16 or another component of the dispenser 10, such as the housing 12 or the shielding 14, as is described with regard to Fig 33. Preferably, the tank 16 or the other component of the dispenser 10 may then be configured in a respective manner as described with regard to the tank 16 shown in Figs. 34 and 35.

[0476] With reference to Figs. 22 and 23 an indicator means 226 is described. The indicator means 226 can be used in a dispenser 10 as described in the foregoing with regard to the first and second embodiments of a dispenser 10.

[0477] In particular, the indicator means 226 comprises a similar set up as the transmitter element 62 as described above. That is, the above described transmitter element 62 can be modified to form the indicator means 226 as described in the following. In particular, the indicator means 226 and the transmitter element 62 may be the same part.

[0478] In the embodiments shown in Fig. 22 and 23, the indicator means 226 like the transmitter element 62 moves together with the piston rod 50 in direction of the longitudinal axis L. This is achieved by a spring 60, such as the auto-prime spring, that bears with on one side on an inner rear end surface 64 of the housing 12 and that bears with another end against a collar 72 formed on the indicator means 226.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 76

[0479] The collar 72 radially protrudes from a side wall of a main body 227 of the indicator means 226.

[0480] As shown in Fig. 23, the main body 227 is formed as a cylindrical part. However, the main body 227 can also formed in a manner like the guidance structure 68 described above. It is further noted that the main body 227 can also have other shapes. In particular, the main body 227 may be pin like.

[0481] The main body 227 of the indicator means 226 is radially surrounded by the spring 60.

[0482] The spring 60 urges the indicator means 226 against the piston rod 50 in a manner as like the transmitter element 62 is pushed against the piston rod 50. The indicator means 226 hence moves together with the piston rod 50 in direction of the longitudinal axis L.

[0483] During forward travel of the piston rod 50, the spring 60 is allowed to expand thereby keeping the indicator means 226 in intimate contact with the piston rod 50. During a rearward movement of the piston rod 50, the spring 60 is compressed still keeping the indicator means 226 and the piston rod 50 in intimate contact. Hence, the indicator means 226 is capable of indicating an axial position of the piston rod 50 relative to the housing 12 of the dispenser 10. In this regard it is noted that an axial position of the piston rod 50 also correlates to how far the piston rod 50 has been moved into a tank 16 attached to the dispenser 10. Hence, the indicator means 226 is also indicative for the material stored in the tank 16.

[0484] In order to securely receive the piston rod 50 at the indicator means 226, the indicator means 226 like the transmitter element 62 may comprise a cone shaped cavity 66 formed on the front end of the indicator means 226 and that receives the cone shaped rear end of the piston rod 50.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 77

[0485] The piston rod 50 can rotate relative to the indicator means 226, with the cone shaped rear end of the piston rod 50 and the cone shaped cavity 66 allowing reduced friction between the piston rod 50 and the indicator means 226. Furthermore, the cone shaped connection allows for a secure assembly of the piston rod 50 and the indicator means 226.

[0486] Furthermore, the indicator means 226 is rotationally fixed with regard to the housing 12 and / or the piston rod 50, while the piston rod 50 is allowed to rotate relative to the housing 12.

[0487] Rotational fixation of the indicator means 226 is achieved by the indicator means 226 comprising at least one guidance means 228 axially guided by at least one complementary guidance means formed at the housing (not shown).

[0488] In the present embodiment, the guidance means 228 of the indicator means 226 is formed by two protrusions 230 present on diametrically opposite outer circumferential sides of the collar 72. As can be seen from Fig. 23 each protrusion 230 axially extends from the collar 72 towards a rear end 70 of the indicator means 226 opposite to the front end.

[0489] The protrusions 230 of the indicator means 226 are respectively guided in corresponding grooves formed on the inner side of the side wall of the housing 12. The grooves extend parallel in direction of the longitudinal axis L.

[0490] It is to be understood that at least one of the guidance means 228 of the indicator means 226 may be formed as a notch instead of a protrusion. The corresponding guidance means formed at the housing 12 may then be a corresponding axially extending rib.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 78

[0491] In order to visualize the indicator means 226, the housing 12 of the present embodiment comprises a window 232. The window 232 is formed on a side surface of the housing 12 (Fig. 22).

[0492] The window 232 may be a cut out of the side wall. This cut out may be open or may be closed by a transparent pane for hygienic purposes.

[0493] In the present embodiment, two windows 232 are formed on diametrically oppositely sides, allowing for a good visibility of the protrusions 230 of the indicator means 226 from both sides of the dispenser 10. However, only one window 232 may be sufficient enough to see the indicator means 226. It is further noted that there may be more than two windows 232 formed on the housing 12, in particular its side wall, such as three, four, five or more windows. It is even further possible to configure the window such that it entirely extends in circumferential direction. Furthermore, the part of the housing 12 in which the indicator means 226 travels from fully retracted to fully extended position may be entirely transparent. In the context of the second embodiment of the dispenser 10 it is noted that the transmitter element 62 guided in the drive tube 136 may also form an indicator means 226 as described herein. The drive tube 136 and the part of the housing 12 in which the transmitter element 62 travels may then be transparent to make the indicator means 226 visible to the user.

[0494] In the present embodiment, the window 232 also forms a part of the guidance means. That is the window 232 comprises an axially extending groove. It is noted that the groove formed at the housing 12 and the groove formed at the window 232 transition into each other.

[0495] It is also noted that the window 232 may be also formed without any guidance means and the guidance means is then formed at an inner side of the housing 12 not comprising the window 232.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 79

[0496] As can be seen from Fig. 23 in combination with Fig. 22, as the protrusions 230 also extend in the axial direction towards the rear end 70 of the indicator means 226, the protrusions 230 form a cover 234 hiding the spring 60 along the axial extension of the indicator means 226. That is, the spring 60 is received radially between the cover 234 and the main body 227 of the indicator means 226.

[0497] Furthermore, the protrusions 230 also form a guidance means for the spring, as parts of the spring are received radially between the outer wall of the main body 227 and the protrusions 230

[0498] In Fig. 22 a position of the indicator means 226 is shown in which the tank 16 is about half full. That is, the indicator means 226 is visible through the window 232, when the piston rod 50 is in a position between a fully retracted rear end position and a fully extended front end position.

[0499] The axial length of the window 232 can be dimensioned such that only the piston rod 50 is visible through the window 232, when the piston rod 50 is in its fully retracted rear end position (full tank 16). Furthermore, the axial length of the window 232 can be also dimensioned such that only the spring 60 is visible through the window 232, i.e. no indictor means 226 is visible, when the piston rod 50 is in its fully extended front end position (tank 16 entirely emptied or tank 16 detached from the dispenser 10).

[0500] In order to enhance the visibility, the piston rod 50 and / or the indicator means 226 may be coloured. In particular, the piston rod 50 and the indicator means 226 may have the same colour or the piston rod 50 and the indicator means 226 may be differently coloured. A different colouration of the piston rod 50 and the indicator means 226 allows to better distinguish between the piston rod 50 and the indicatormedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 80

[0501] means 226 allowing for a better indication of the piston rod’s axial position and therefore the filling status of the tank 16.

[0502] In the following, various further types of applicator tips 18 to be used in combination with the dispenser 10 are described with regard to Figs. 24 to 33.

[0503] In particular, Figs. 24 to 31 show front parts of respective applicator tips 18.

[0504] Fig. 32 shows an entire applicator tip 18 and Fig. 33 shows a cross-section thereof.

[0505] The rear parts of the applicator tips 18 are not shown in Figs. 24 to 31.

[0506] The rear parts of the applicator tips 18 of Figs. 24 to 31 may be configured in a manner as described above, for instance with regard to Fig. 12 and / or Figs. 17 to 21. The rear parts of the applicator tips 18 of Figs. 24 to 31 may also be configured in a manner as described below with regard to Fig. 33.

[0507] In particular, although not detailed in Figs. 24 to 31 , the applicator tips 18 may comprise a protrusion 110 for a connection as described with regard to Figs. 12 and 13.

[0508] Alternatively or supplementary, the applicator tips 18 may comprise a connection means 206 (connection member 206) as described with regard to Figs. 17 to 21.

[0509] The applicator tips 18 described hereinafter may be connected to either one of the housing 12, the shielding 14 or the tank 16 of the dispenser 10.

[0510] It is noted that an applicator tip 18 shown in Figs. 24 to 33 and the tank 16 may be formed as a single piece.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 81

[0511] The applicator tips 18 shown in Figs. 24 to 31 each comprise an elongated dispense body 236.

[0512] A conduit 238 or passage is formed in the elongated dispense body 236 fluidically connecting the cavity 204 formed at the rear part of the applicator tip 18 with a dispense opening 240 at the front part of the applicator tip 18.

[0513] The conduit 238 allows for a fluid connection of the dispense opening 240 of the applicator tip 18 and the tank 16 for discharge action.

[0514] In Figs. 24 to 26 the conduit 238 and the cavity 204 are schematically depicted by dashed lines.

[0515] In Figs. 27 to 31 the cavity 204 and the conduit 238 are not depicted. However, the applicator tips 18 of Figs. 27 to 31 also comprise a cavity 204 and a conduit 238 connecting the cavity 204 with the respective dispense opening 240.

[0516] The dispense opening 240 allows for discharge action of the material dispensed by the dispenser 10.

[0517] In the illustrated embodiments, each dispense body 236 comprises a distribution means 242.

[0518] The dispense body 236 and the distribution means 242 may together also be referred to as applicator head 244.

[0519] The distribution means 242 may be formed at or about the dispense opening 240.

[0520] Preferably, the applicator tip 18 and its distribution means 242 are formed as a single piece.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 82

[0521] However, the applicator tip 18 and the distribution means 242 may also be formed as separate pieces connected to each other.

[0522] As illustrated in particular in Figs. 24 and 25, the distribution means 242 can comprise a brush configuration or simply a brush 246. A further brush configuration is shown in Figs. 27, 28 and 31 to 33 and described below.

[0523] Preferably, the respective brushes 246 of the applicator tips 18 shown in Figs. 24 and 25 as well as in Figs. 32 and 33 are formed as a micro bristle brush.

[0524] The bristles of such a micro bristle brush may have a diameter selected in the range of 0.01 to 0.5 mm and / or a length selected in the range of 0.2 to 30 mm.

[0525] The respective brushes 246 shown in Figs. 24 and 25 as well as in Figs. 32 and 33 are arranged about the dispense opening 240. That is the brush 246 surrounds the dispense opening 240.

[0526] In Fig. 26, the distribution means 242 has a porous configuration and is formed as a soft solid foam 248 with open cells.

[0527] The foam 248 is formed at the dispense opening 240 of the dispense body 236. As such, the outer openings of the pores 250 of the foam 248 respectively define dispense openings 240 through which a material from the tank 16 may be discharged at a place of application.

[0528] Although not shown in the drawings, the distribution means 242 may also be a spray nozzle. The nozzle may be formed at the dispense body 236.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 83

[0529] Each applicator tip 18 shown in Figs. 24 to 26 comprises a closure 252 configured to be coupled releasably to the dispense body 236 to close the dispense opening 240, in particular before and after the dispense operation.

[0530] Although not shown, the applicator tips 18 of Figs. 27 to 33 may also comprise a closure.

[0531] In the following further embodiments of an applicator tip 18 are described in greater detail with regard to Figs. 27 to 31.

[0532] Each of the applicator tips 18 of Figs. 27 to 31 comprises an applicator head 244 having a dispense body 236 and a distribution means 242.

[0533] Although not shown, each applicator head 244 comprises a cavity at the rear part.

[0534] The cavity may be configured in a manner as described above with regard to the applicator tips 18 shown in Figs. 24 to 26.

[0535] Preferably, for connection purposes the cavity may comprise a protrusion 110 like the one described with regard to Fig. 12 and / or connection means 206 as described with regard to Figs. 17 to 21.

[0536] It is noted that the cavity may also comprise interference means, like the interference means 126 as described with regard to Fig. 12.

[0537] A conduit (not shown) extends through the applicator head 244 and fluidically connects the cavity with at least one outlet opening 240 formed at the distribution means 242.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 84

[0538] Although not compulsory, the applicator tip 18 may be connected to or may comprise an elongate body part 254 (partially shown in Fig. 31). However, each of the applicator tips 18 shown in Figs. 24 to 31 may comprise only the applicator head 244 without the elongate body part 254.

[0539] In particular, the applicator head 244 and the elongate body part 254 may be formed as separate pieces connectable to each other.

[0540] By forming the applicator head 244 and the elongate body part 254 as separate pieces, a user has the option to elongate the applicator tip 18 for remote applications.

[0541] The applicator head 244 may be connected to the elongate body part 254 in a manner as described above in view of a connection of the applicator tip 18 and the tank 16.

[0542] The front part of the elongate body part 254 may comprise connection means like the ones formed at the front part of the tank 16.

[0543] The rear part of the elongate body part 254 may be configured like the rear part of the applicator tips 18 described with regard to Figs. 12 or 17 to 21 to connect the rear part of the elongate body part 254 to the tank 16.

[0544] This enables a versatile connectivity.

[0545] It is noted that the applicator tips 18 described with regard to Figs. 24 to 26 may be usable with an elongate body part 254.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 85

[0546] In an assembled state of the dispenser 10, the elongate body part 242 may be arranged between the rear part of the applicator tip 18 and at least one of the tank 16, the housing 12 and the shielding 14.

[0547] In particular, the elongate body part 254 comprises a conduit (not shown) extending therethrough, which facilitates the transport of the material discharged from the tank 16 to the distribution means 242 at a remote place, such as for instance a molar tooth.

[0548] As mentioned, the applicator head 244 and the elongate body part 254 may also be formed as an already connected single piece. That is, the applicator head 244 and the elongate part 254 together form the applicator tip 18.

[0549] The applicator tip 18 may be made from two parts of different material. One of the two parts made from a different material is the elongate body part 254 and the other of the two parts made from a different material is the applicator head 244.

[0550] That is, the applicator head 244 is made from a material different from the elongate body part 254. However, the applicator head 244 and the elongate body part 254 may also be formed from the same material.

[0551] The elongate body part 254 may be made from one of polypropylene (PP) and polylactide (PLA).

[0552] The applicator head 244 may be injection molded over the elongate body part 254 over the length of the connecting portion. A length of the connecting portion is selected as 10 to 30 % of a length of the elongate body part 254 between the front end and the rear end of the elongate body part 254.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 86

[0553] It should be noted that a hardness of the elongate body part 254 may be selected in the hardness range Shore D hardness between 45 and 96, preferably between 70 and 90 shore D hardness.

[0554] As is apparent from the front view of Fig. 28, a cross-section of the elongate body part 254 is formed by a Reuleaux triangle.

[0555] However, the elongate body part 254 may also have other cross-sectional shapes, such as a circular, triangular, rectangular or polygonal shape.

[0556] The applicator tip 18 may further comprise first and second kinks 256, 258 (Fig. 31 ), with one of the two kinks 256 being arranged at a part of the applicator tip 18 where the two different applicator head 244 and the elongate body part 254 at least partially overlap one another.

[0557] The first kink 256 may be arranged at a connecting portion, i.e. at that part of the applicator tip 18 where the applicator head 244 is overmolded onto the elongate body part 254, whereas the second kink 258 is arranged only at the elongate body part 254.

[0558] However, the first kink 256 may be also formed at the dispense body 236, in particular without forming any connecting portion with elongate body part.

[0559] The two kinks 256, 258 are configured to be bent in one direction while being able to be bent at any angle in the radial direction by 360° relative to the longitudinal axis. This may be achieved for instance by forming the respective kinks 256, 258 of a material more soft than the material of the applicator head 244 and / or the elongated body part 254.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 87

[0560] The triangular shaped body permits the applicator tip 18 to lie on a flat surface without rolling off and the applicator tip 18 can be placed onto the flat surface with the distribution means 242 facing away from the flat surface, i.e. relative to the elongate body part 254. In particular, the applicator tip 18 can be placed on the surface such that the distribution means 242 is bent away from the surface which avoids contamination of the distribution means 242.

[0561] On using the applicator tip 18 a user can decide where the applicator tip 18 is intended to be used and then bend the distribution means 242 relative to the elongate body part 254 at least once at one of the first and second kinks 256, 258 prior to using the distribution means 242 even at hard to reach target cites.

[0562] In the shown embodiments, the first and second kinks 256, 258 are each configured as a peripherally extending groove 260. The groove 260 can have one of a round, circular, oval, and triangular cross-section transverse to a longitudinal axis L of the applicator tip 18.

[0563] A width of the groove 260 of second kink 258 is larger than a width of the groove 260 of the first kink 256 in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L.

[0564] In this connection it should be noted that a width of the groove 260 of the second kink 258 can be selected in the range of 1 % to 5 % of a length of the applicator tip 18.

[0565] In this connection it should be further noted that the second kink 258 is arranged at a length corresponding to 10 to 30 % of a length of the applicator tip 18.

[0566] In this connection it should be further noted that a width of the groove 260 of the first kink 256 is selected in the range of 0.2 to 1 % of a length of the applicator tip 18.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 88

[0567] In this connection it should further be noted that the first kink 256 is arranged at a length corresponding to 2 to 10 % of a length of the applicator tip 18.

[0568] Now turning to Figs. 27 and 28 a further distribution means 242 is described.

[0569] The distribution means 242 shown in Figs. 27 and 28 comprises a brush 262 with a plurality of bristles 264. The bristles 264 are dimensioned for the specific application. The brush 262 and the bristles 264 are formed by a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

[0570] In this connection it should be noted that a hardness of the application head 244 and of the distribution means 242 may be selected in the hardness range 20 Shore 00 up to 90 Shore A.

[0571] The bristles 264 may have a diameter selected in the range of 0.1 to 1 mm and / or a length selected in the range of 0.2 to 4 mm.

[0572] The bristles 264 may be of cylindrical shape or have the shape of a truncated cone, with the diameter then being the diameter at half of the length of the bristle 264.

[0573] The number of bristles 264 may be selected in the range of 20 to 100, preferably in the range of 30 to 50.

[0574] At least some, in particular all, of the bristles 264 are hollow, have an open end and are in fluid communication with the conduit. That is, each hollow bristle 264 defines an dispense opening 240 through which a material from the tank 16 may be discharged at a place of application.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 89

[0575] Fig. 29 shows a view of a further applicator tip 18, with a foam distribution means 242 made from an open cell foam having open pores.

[0576] The material of the foam distribution means 242 may be one of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), poly vinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU), polystyrene (PS), a latex foam and combinations of the foregoing. In particular, the foam is an elastic solid foam with open cell structure.

[0577] The outer openings of the pores respectively define dispense openings 240 through which a material from the tank 16 may be discharged at a place of application.

[0578] Fig. 30 shows a view of yet a further applicator tip 18. The distribution means 242 has four claws 266 that form a cage 268 in which a material to be dispensed may be collected on use of the applicator tip 18. The number of the claws 266 may be less or more than four, such as two, three, five, six or more.

[0579] In particular, the claws 266 are connected at each end to one another and are curved in shape and merge into a tip 270 at a most distal point of the applicator tip 18.

[0580] In order to provide the cage 268 with the material, at least one claw 266 may be hollow and perforated. The perforation acts as a dispense opening 240 (indicated as dashed line in Fig. 30).

[0581] The at least one hollow claw 266 is in fluid communication with the conduit extending through the applicator tip 18.

[0582] Preferably, the perforation faces towards the inside of the cage 268. This enables collection of the material inside the cage 268 prior to application.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 90

[0583] Additionally or supplementary, at least one hollow claw 266 may comprise a perforation facing towards the outside of distribution means 242. This allows for direct provision of the discharged material at the place of application.

[0584] It is noted that at least one perforation may be formed at the hollow claw 266 between the above described positions.

[0585] Fig. 31 shows a view of yet a further applicator head 244. The distribution means 242 is a brush 262 with bristles 264. In contrast to the brush 262 with bristles 264 shown in connection with Figs. 27 and 28, the bristles 264 extend in parallel to one another and only in two directions that are oppositely disposed with respect to the longitudinal axis L rather than radially with respect to the longitudinal axis L.

[0586] However, like the bristles 264 of Figs. 27 and 28, at least some, in particular all, of the bristles 264 of Fig. 31 are hollow with the hollow bristles 264 being in fluid communication with the conduit extending through the applicator tip 18.

[0587] Although shown with an elongated body part 254, the applicator tip 18 of Fig. 31 may only comprise the applicator head 244 without the elongated body part 254.

[0588] With reference to Figs. 32 and 33, another embodiment of an applicator tip 18 is described.

[0589] The dispense body 236 of the applicator tip 18 shown in Figs. 32 and 33 is formed as a bent cannula. The cannula may also be straight.

[0590] Furthermore, the cannula of the applicator tip 18 of Figs. 32 and 33 may be rotatable about the longitudinal axis L of the applicator tip 18 (Fig. 33). It is also possible that the cannula is rotationally fixed with regard to the remaining applicator tip 18.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 91

[0591] The distribution means 242 of the applicator tip 18 of Figs. 32 and 33 is formed as a brush 246, in particular comprising micro bristles.

[0592] The brush 246 can be used to clean a surface on which a material is to be subsequently dispensed through the cannula. The brush 246 may also be used to distribute a material discharged through the dispense opening 240 (Fig. 33).

[0593] The brush 246 comprises a part 272 that laterally surrounds the dispense body 236 at a front section of the dispense body 236.

[0594] Furthermore, the brush 246 comprises a dome shaped part 274 adjacent to the laterally surrounding part 272 of the brush 246. The dome shaped part 274 is formed at the front tip of the canula and surrounds the dispense opening 240 (Fig. 33).

[0595] It is noted that the brush 246 may also be formed without the dome shaped part 274, i.e. comprising only the lateral part 272. It is also possible that the brush 246 may comprise only the dome shaped part 274, i.e. without the lateral part 272.

[0596] The applicator tip 18 further comprises a connection member 206 (Fig. 33) to allow for a removable connection of the applicator tip 18 to a further component of the dispenser 10, such as the tank 16, the shielding 14 or the housing 12

[0597] The connection member 206 is formed in the cavity 204 at a rear section of the applicator tip 18.

[0598] In the embodiment shown in Figs. 32 and 33, the connection member 206 is formed by a plurality of bulges 276.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 92

[0599] The bulges 276 are dome shaped with an elliptical base and protrude radially inwardly into the cavity 204 from an inner side of the side wall 202 of the applicator tip 18. The main axis of the elliptical base is aligned parallel to the circumferential direction. However, the main axis may be aligned in another direction, such as parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the applicator tip 18 or between the circumferential direction and the longitudinal axis L. It is noted that at least one of the bulges 276 may have a base with another shape, such as a circular or a polygonal shape.

[0600] Furthermore, the bulges 276 are spaced apart from each other in circumferential direction of the side wall 202. Preferably the bulges 276 are equally spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. However, the bulges 276 may be spaced apart from each other at irregular distances.

[0601] The number of bulges 276 may be between 1 and 10, preferably between 2 and 6, most preferably between 3 and 5.

[0602] The bulges 276 are elastically radially deflectable.

[0603] This may be achieved by forming the side wall 202 elastically deformable, such as by choosing the side wall thickness in a manner to allow radial elastic deformation and / or by using an elastically deformable material for the side wall 202.

[0604] Supplementary or alternatively, at least one of the bulges 276 may be formed of an elastically deformable material. If the bulges 276 are formed of an elastic material, the side wall 202 of the applicator tip 18 may be rigid.

[0605] The elastic configuration allows for the applicator tip 18 to be safely seated at the further component of the dispenser 10, such as the tank 16, the shielding 14 or the housing 12, still enabling rotational movement of the applicator tip 18 with regard to the further component of the dispenser 10 about the longitudinal axis L.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 93

[0606] In particular, the elastic configuration allows for an interference fit or a snap-fit connection when assembled to the further component of the dispenser 10.

[0607] An interference fit is beneficial in that a rotational position of the applicator tip 18 remains in that position which has been adjusted by a user, yet allowing for further rotational movement of the applicator tip 18 if needed by the user.

[0608] The bulges 276 are in particular designed to be connected to a tank 16 like the tanks 16 shown in Figs. 34 and 35. In particular, the bulges 276 bear against a circumferential bearing surface 278 formed at a front section of the tank 16 shown in Figs. 34 and 35. The bulges 276 bear against the circumferential bearing surface 278 in a force fit manner, still enabling said rotational movement of the applicator tip 18 with regard to the tank 16. It is noted that a bearing surface 278 may also be formed at the shielding 14 or housing 12 if the applicator tip 18 is connected thereto.

[0609] The applicator tip 18 is fully rotatable through 360° relative to the further component of the dispenser 10. For this purpose, the bearing surface 278 entirely extends in circumferential direction, i.e. through 360°. Furthermore, the circumferential bearing surface 278 extends about the longitudinal axis L of the tank 16.

[0610] It is further noted that the connection member 206 of the applicator tip 18 of Figs. 32 and 33 may also be formed in a manner as described with regard to the applicator tips 18 of Figs. 17 to 21 or like the protrusion 110 described with regard to the applicator tip 18 shown in Fig. 12. It is to be understood that the further component of the dispenser 10 is then formed in a manner to mate with the respective connection member 206 or protrusion 110 (see description above with regard to Figs. 17 to 21 and Fig. 13).medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 94

[0611] Now turning to Figs. 34 and 35, in the following, further embodiments of a tank 16 are described with greater detail.

[0612] The tanks 16 respectively shown in Figs. 34 and 35 basically correspond to the tank 16 of Fig. 2 or Fig. 13 (or Fig. 11 ).

[0613] However, in contrast to the tank 16 of Figs. 2 or 13 (or 11 ), the tanks of Figs. 34 and 35 comprise said circumferential bearing surface 278 instead of the guide track 112. Nevertheless, depending on the application, the tanks 16 of Figs. 34 and 35 may also comprise the guide track 112 described above.

[0614] Each of the tanks 16 shown in Figs. 34 and 35 have a set of two protrusions 106 formed in a diametrically opposed manner on the outer circumferential surface of the tank 16. Depending on the application, the tank 16 may comprise less or more than two protrusions 106, such as one protrusion 106 or three, four, five or more protrusions 106.

[0615] The protrusions 106 are formed at the rear portion of the tank 16.

[0616] A ramp-like retaining means 120 (retaining means 120a) is associated with each protrusion 106. However, the tank 16 may comprise at least only one retaining means 120. The retaining means 120 may also be formed at another place at the outer circumferential surface of the tank 16 instead of being associated with a protrusion 106.

[0617] In the embodiments shown in Figs. 34 and 35, the retaining means 120 are arranged upstream with regard to the protrusions 106 towards the front end of the tank 16.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 95

[0618] The ramp-like retaining means 120 radially increases in a circumferential direction opposite to the assembly direction, in particular with regard to the assembly direction provided by the circumferential portion 118b of the groove 118 receiving the protrusion 106.

[0619] In this regard, the assembly direction in circumferential direction is defined by the circumferential portion 118b of the groove 118 and is that direction that points from the axial portion 118a of the groove 118 towards the final end of the circumferential portion 118b of the groove 118. The direction opposite to the assembly direction (disassembly direction) points from the final end of the circumferential portion 118b of the groove 118 towards the axial portion 118a of the groove.

[0620] The tank 16 of Fig. 34, like the tank 16 of Fig. 2, comprises a protrusion 106 having an annular shape.

[0621] In contrast to that, the tank 16 of Fig. 35 has a protrusion 106 having a U shape.

[0622] The U-shaped protrusion 106 in the embodiment shown in Fig. 35 is open to the front end of the tank 16. However, the U-shaped protrusion 106 may also be open to the rear end of the tank 16. It is also possible that the U-shaped protrusion 106 is open in circumferential direction of the tank 16.

[0623] The legs of the U-shaped protrusion 106 are elastically deflectable and form crush ribs to minimize unwanted tolerances between the protrusions 16 and the groove 118.

[0624] The outer circumference of the protrusions 106 may be slightly larger, i.e. by 0.5 to 3 % larger than a width of the groove 118.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 96

[0625] As mentioned above, the protrusions 106 are used to couple the tank 16 to the housing 12 in a bayonet type manner by guiding the protrusions 106 in corresponding L-shaped grooves 118 formed at the housing 12, thereby twisting the tank 16 into the housing 12 as the protrusions 106 move in the circumferential portion 118b of the groove 118.

[0626] As is also mentioned above, the applicator tip 18 connected to the tank 16 or the further component of the dispenser 10 is fully rotatable through 360° (embodiments shown in Figs.17 to 21 and Figs. 24 to 35) or almost fully rotatable through 360° (embodiment shown in Figs 12 and 13) about the longitudinal axis L.

[0627] As a consequence of the rotation of the applicator tip 18, in particular due to frictional forces between the applicator tip 18 and the tank 16, the tank 16 may eventually loosen if the applicator tip 18 entrains the tank 16 upon a rotation of the applicator tip 18 in a direction opposite to the assembly direction of the tank 16.

[0628] In order to prevent this, the tank 16 comprises at least one stop means 280.

[0629] In a fully assembled state of the tank 16, the stop means 280 bears against a corresponding counter bearing that prevents unintentional rotation of the tank 16 in a direction opposite to the assembly direction, when the applicator tip 18 is rotated.

[0630] The tank 16 is fully assembled when the protrusion 106 bears against the final end of the circumferential portion 118b of the groove 118.

[0631] The dispenser 10 is fully assembled when all parts thereof are connected together.

[0632] The counter bearing may be formed as a part radially inwardly projecting from an inner side wall of the housing 12 and / or the shielding 14 (not shown in the drawings).medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 97

[0633] Now turning back to the stop means 280 of the tank 16.

[0634] In the embodiment shown in Figs. 34 and 35, the tank 16 comprises two stop means 280 arranged in a diametrically opposed manner on an outer circumferential surface of the tank 16. It is noted that the tank 16 may comprise less or more than two stop means 280, such as one, three, four, five or more stop means 280.

[0635] The stop means 280 are rib like and radially protrude from the outer circumferential surface of the tank 16.

[0636] The stop means 280 are off-set with regard to the protrusions 106 in circumferential direction.

[0637] In the present embodiment, the stop means 280 are circumferentially off-set with regard to the protrusions 106 by a circumferential off-set angle of 90°.

[0638] The circumferential off-set angle is determined by the angle of twist of the tank 16 in which the protrusion 106 has to turn in the circumferential portion 118b of the groove 118 to reach the final or fully assembled position. This ensures that the stop means 280 bears against the counter bearing formed at the housing 12 and / or the shielding 14, when the tank 16 is twisted into its final assembled end position and the dispenser 10 is fully assembled.

[0639] By means of example, the circumferential off-set angle is smaller than 90° if the tank 16 needs to be rotated less than 90° to turn into the fully assembled position. Likewise, the circumferential off-set angle is larger than 90° if the tank 16 needs to be rotated more than 90° to turn into the fully assembled position.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 98

[0640] Furthermore, the stop means 280 are axially off-set in direction of the longitudinal axis L with regard to the protrusions 106.

[0641] The axial off-set length between the stop means 280 and the protrusions 106 depends on the position of the circumferential portion 118b of the groove 118 with regard to the counter bearing in direction of the longitudinal axis L.

[0642] In the present embodiment, the stop means 280 are formed in a front third between the front part and the rear part of the tank 16.

[0643] However, the stop means 280 may also be axially positioned at another place, such as for example about in the middle between the front part and the rear part of the tank 16.

[0644] It is noted that the tank 16 described with regard to Figs. 1 to 23 may also comprise such kind of stop means 280. It is understood that the housing 12 and / or the shielding 14 may then comprise a corresponding counter bearing.

[0645] As can be further seen from Figs. 34 and 35, the tank 16 comprises four alignment means 282.

[0646] The alignment means 282 of the present embodiment are formed as ribs that axially and radially protrude from a shoulder 284, the shoulder 285 radially protruding with regard to the circumferential bearing surface 278.

[0647] The alignment means 282 are used to precisely align the tank 16 with respect to the shielding 14.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 99

[0648] Such an alignment may be achieved by forming corresponding recesses or grooves at the shielding 14 that receive the rib-like alignment means 282, when the shielding 14 is assembled to the housing 12 and / or the tank 16.

[0649] It is noted that at least one alignment means 282 may be additionally or alternatively formed as a groove. The shielding 14 may then comprise a corresponding projection mating with the alignment groove of the tank 16.

[0650] It is further noted that for the purpose of aligning the shielding 14 with the tank 16, the tank 16 may comprise less or more than four alignment means 282, such as for instance one, two, three, five, six or more alignment means 282.

[0651] Furthermore, if the shielding 14 is connected, it is still possible to rotate the applicator tip 18 with regard to the tank 16.

[0652] Now turning to the rear side of the tank 16, as depicted in detail in Fig. 36.

[0653] At the rear side, the tank 16 comprises at least one venting recess 284 used to ventilate the tank 16.

[0654] The venting recess 284 is formed at an inner side wall of the tank 16.

[0655] The at least one venting recess 284 allows a ventilation of the tank 16 to remove remaining air that might be trapped in the tank 16. This has two advantages. First, with the removal of air from the tank 16 the material stored therein can be preserved from reacting with said air, e.g. by hardening. Second, by removing remaining air, a smooth dispensing flow can be generated which is not interrupted by air bubbles trapped within the tank 16 during dispense action.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 100

[0656] The rear portion of the tank 16 depicted in Fig. 36 also comprises a ramp feature 84, like the ramp feature 84 depicted in Fig. 9a.

[0657] Like the ramp feature 84 of Fig. 9a, the ramp feature 84 shown in Fig. 36 has a ramp 86.

[0658] Furthermore, the tank 16 depicted in Fig. 36 like the tank 16 of Fig. 9a has two ramp features 84.

[0659] The functionality of the ramp feature 84 is described in detail above with regard to Fig. 9a.

[0660] In contrast to the ramp feature 84 of Fig. 9a, the ramp feature 84 is not peaked, but rather comprises a plateau 288 following the ramp 86 in circumferential direction. Such a configuration enhances a secure engagement of the clutch 56.

[0661] It is noted that the beginning of each ramp 86, i.e. the part of the ramp 86 opposite to the part of the ramp 86 that transitions into the plateau 288, is off-set with regard to the respective projection 106 by about 90°. As mentioned with regard to the stop means 280, this circumferential off-set angle depends on the angle of twist of the tank 16 in which the protrusion 106 has to turn in the circumferential portion 118b of the groove 118 to reach the final assembled position.

[0662] Now turning to Figs. 37 to 39 which show different views of a further embodiment of a support structure 26. In this regard, it is noted that the side view of Fig. 38 is slightly rotated about the longitudinal axis L with regard to the side view of Fig. 39.

[0663] The support structure 26 of Figs. 37 to 39 can be used as the support structure 26 described above.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 101

[0664] The support structure 26 is formed as an insert that is at least partially received in the housing 12.

[0665] The support structure 26 may be connected to the housing 12 by a snap-fit connection and / or a screw type connection.

[0666] Furthermore, the support structure 26 of Figs. 37 to 39 like the support structure 26 described in the foregoing also comprises the fulcrum 24a for the lever 24.

[0667] The support structure 26 comprises ratchet teeth 44 at its rear end (Fig. 39). That is, the support structure 26 also forms the blocking element 40 for the drive nut 34, i.e. the support structure 26 and the blocking element 40 are formed as a single piece, as mentioned above. The functioning of the blocking element 40 is also described above.

[0668] Like the diametrically opposed protrusions 106 of the tank 16, the support structure 26 comprises two diametrically opposed bayonet type L-shaped grooves 118. The number of protrusions 106 of the tank 16 and the number of grooves 118 of the support structure 26 match.

[0669] Each of the grooves 118 comprise an axial portion 118a extending in direction of the longitudinal axis L and a circumferential portion 118b extending in a circumferential direction.

[0670] The axial portion 118a of the groove 118 begins at the front of the support structure 26 and extends at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L in direction towards the rear end of the support structure 26.

[0671] The axial portion 118a transitions into the circumferential portion 118b of the groove 118.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 102

[0672] In this regard it is noted that the axial portion 118a and the circumferential portion 118b are not orthogonally aligned, i.e. at 90°, but rather at an angle larger than 90°.

[0673] In the present embodiment, the axial portion 118a and the circumferential portion 118b of the groove 118 are aligned at an angle of about 95°. However, the angle may be more or less than 95° as long as the angle is larger than 90° and smaller than 180°.

[0674] Such kind of configuration provides an additional axial movement of the tank 16, when the tank 16 is twisted along the circumferential portion 118b of the groove 118, thereby securely engaging the clutch 56 allowing for a reliable functioning of the dispenser 10.

[0675] It is noted that the groove 118 depicted in Figs. 2 and 15 may be also configured in a manner as described above with regard to the groove 118 of the support structure 26 of Figs. 37 to 39. That is, an angle between the axial portion 118a and the circumferential portion 118b of the groove 118 may be larger than 90° and smaller than 180°, such as 95°.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO

[0676] 103

[0677] List of reference signs

[0678] 10 multi-use dispenser

[0679] 11 front end

[0680] 12 housing

[0681] 12a front housing part

[0682] 12b rear housing part

[0683] 13 rear end

[0684] 14 shielding

[0685] 14a front part of 14

[0686] 14b rear part of 14

[0687] 16 tank

[0688] 18 applicator tip

[0689] 20 cannula

[0690] 22 dispense activator

[0691] 24 two-arm lever, lever

[0692] 24a fulcrum

[0693] 27 stopping element

[0694] 26 support structure

[0695] 29 snap dome

[0696] 28 push arm

[0697] 30 push button of 24

[0698] 32 drive arm of 24

[0699] 34 drive nut

[0700] 35 spring

[0701] 36 rotation mechanism

[0702] 38 ratchet teeth of 34

[0703] 40 blocking element

[0704] 42 ratchet teeth of 34

[0705] 44 ratchet teeth of 40medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO

[0706] 104

[0707] 46 spring

[0708] 48 washer

[0709] 50 threaded piston rod

[0710] 52 dispensing mechanism 54 body nut

[0711] 56 clutch

[0712] 58 plunger

[0713] 60 spring

[0714] 62 transmitter element

[0715] 64 inner end surface of 12 66 cavity

[0716] 68 guidance structure

[0717] 70 rear end

[0718] 72 collar

[0719] 71 groove

[0720] 73 guidance means

[0721] 74 engagement means of 54 76 engagement means of 56 78 teeth

[0722] 80 teeth

[0723] 82 passage

[0724] 84 ramp feature

[0725] 86 ramp of 84

[0726] 88 ramp feature

[0727] 90 ramp of 88

[0728] 92 spring

[0729] 94 shoulder

[0730] 96 first coding means

[0731] 98 second coding means 100 ringmedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO

[0732] 102 groove

[0733] 104 notch

[0734] 106 protrusion

[0735] 108 channel

[0736] 110 protrusion

[0737] 112 guide track

[0738] 112a first portion

[0739] 112b second portion

[0740] 114 detent

[0741] 116 stopping member

[0742] 118 L-shaped groove

[0743] 118a axial portion of 118

[0744] 118b circumferential portion of 118 120 retaining means

[0745] 120a first retaining means

[0746] 120b second retaining means

[0747] 122 pocket

[0748] 124 interference means

[0749] 126 spline

[0750] 128 base

[0751] 130 tine

[0752] 132 break through

[0753] 134 transmission means

[0754] 136 drive tube

[0755] 138 toothed engagement means 140 drive plate

[0756] 142 shaft

[0757] 144 bevel gear

[0758] 146 bevel gear

[0759] 148 passagemedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO

[0760] 150 return spring

[0761] 152 preload means

[0762] 154 washer

[0763] 156 collar

[0764] 158 drive ratchet

[0765] 160 splines

[0766] 162 splines

[0767] 164 shoulder

[0768] 166 drive ratchet spring

[0769] 168 ratchet teeth

[0770] 170 ratchet teeth

[0771] 172 ratchet teeth

[0772] 174 ratchet teeth

[0773] 176 counter ratchet

[0774] 178 splines

[0775] 180 splines

[0776] 182 counter ratchet spring

[0777] 184 collar

[0778] 186 insert

[0779] 188 splines

[0780] 190 splines

[0781] 192 clutch spring

[0782] 194 reactor plate

[0783] 196 neck

[0784] 198 passage

[0785] 200 front wall

[0786] 202 side wall

[0787] 204 cavity

[0788] 206 connection member

[0789] 208 corresponding connection membermedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO

[0790] 107

[0791] 210 plug

[0792] 212 outlet opening

[0793] 214 passage

[0794] 216 predetermined breaking means 218 shell wall

[0795] 220 radial gap

[0796] 222 insert

[0797] 224 connection means

[0798] 226 indicator means

[0799] 227 main body

[0800] 228 guidance means

[0801] 230 protrusion

[0802] 232 window

[0803] 234 cover

[0804] 236 dispense body

[0805] 238 conduit

[0806] 240 dispense opening

[0807] 242 distribution means

[0808] 244 applicator head

[0809] 246 brush

[0810] 248 foam

[0811] 250 pores

[0812] 252 closure

[0813] 254 elongate body part

[0814] 256 first kink

[0815] 258 second kink

[0816] 260 groove

[0817] 262 brush

[0818] 264 bristle

[0819] 266 clawmedmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO

[0820] 108

[0821] 268 cage

[0822] 270 tip

[0823] 272 lateral part of 246

[0824] 274 dome shaped part of 246

[0825] 276 bulge

[0826] 278 circumferential bearing surface at 16

[0827] 280 stop means

[0828] 282 alignment means

[0829] 284 shoulder

[0830] 286 venting recess

[0831] 288 plateau

[0832] B arrow indicating pushing direction

[0833] E arrow indicating engagement direction

[0834] I arrow indicating an insertion direction

[0835] R arrow indicating rotation direction

[0836] T arrow indicting a twisting direction

[0837] C1 arrow indicating a first deflection direction C2 arrow indicating a second deflection direction

[0838] L longitudinal axis

[0839] P pivot axis

Claims

medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 109Claims1. A dispenser (10) extending between a front end (11 ) and a rear end (13) along a longitudinal axis (L), the dispenser (10) comprising:- a threaded piston rod (50) extending and movable along the longitudinal axis (L);- a body nut (54) in engagement, in particular in threaded engagement, with the piston rod (50);- a drive nut (34) in engagement, in particular in threaded engagement, with the piston rod (50); and- a drive tube (136) rotatable about the longitudinal axis (L) and at least partially accommodating the piston rod (50) in a slidable nonengaged manner, the drive tube (136) interacting with the drive nut (34), wherein a rotation of the drive tube (136) in a first direction causes a rotation of the piston rod (50) about the longitudinal axis (L) by a rotation of the drive nut (34) and the rotation of the piston rod (50) being transferred into an axial movement of the piston rod (50), in particular towards the front end (11 ), by means of the engagement between the piston rod (50) and the body nut (54);the dispenser (10) further comprising:- a lever (24) pivotable about a pivot axis (P), wherein an activation of the lever (24) for dispense operation rotates the drive tube (136) in the first rotation direction.

2. The dispenser (10) of claim 1 , whereinthe pivot axis (P) of the lever (24) and the longitudinal axis (L) are arranged at least substantially perpendicular to each other.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 1103. The dispenser (10) of claim 1 or 2, whereinthe dispenser (10) comprises transmission means (134) transferring motion between the lever (24) and the drive tube (136).

4. The dispenser (10) of claim 3, whereinthe transmission means (134) comprises a bevel gear (144) associated with the lever (24) and meshing with a corresponding bevel gear (146) associated with the drive tube (136), in particular formed on the drive tube (136).

5. The dispenser (10) of claim 4, whereintwo counter rotating bevel gears (144) are associated with the lever (24) and two counter rotating bevel gears (146) are associated with the drive tube (136), in particular on oppositely averted side surfaces of the drive tube (136).

6. The dispenser (10) of any one of the preceding claims, whereinrotation of the drive tube (136) in the first direction is transmitted onto the drive nut (34) by means of a drive ratchet (158), in particular wherein the drive ratchet (158) is rotationally fixed with regard to the drive tube (136) and the drive ratchet (158) comprising ratchet teeth (168) interacting with corresponding ratchet teeth (170) formed on the drive nut (34).

7. The dispenser (10) of any of the preceding claims, whereinthe drive tube (136) is rotated in the first rotation direction against a return force of a return spring (150), in particular the return spring (150) being a torsional spring; and / or wherein the lever (24) is activated against a return force of a return spring (150), in particular the return spring (150) being a compression spring.medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 1118. The dispenser (10) of any of the preceding claims, whereinthe body nut (54) is rotationally fixed during dispense operation and / or the body nut (54) is allowed to freely rotate during resetting of the piston rod (50).

9. The dispenser (10) of any of the preceding claims, whereinthe dispenser (10) further comprises a clutch (56) moveable, in particular axially movable, between a disengaged position and an engaged position, the body nut (54) allowed to freely rotate in the disengaged position of the clutch (56) and the body nut (54) being rotationally fixed in the engaged position of the clutch.

10. The dispenser (10) of any of the preceding claims, whereinthe dispenser (10) comprises a counter ratchet (176) blocking a rotation of the drive nut (34) in a second direction opposite to the first direction of rotation.

11. The dispenser (10) of claim 10, whereinthe counter ratchet (176) rotationally fixing the drive nut (54) during resetting of the piston rod (50).

12. The dispenser (10) of any one of claims 10 and 11 , whereinthe respective blocking directions of the drive ratchet (158) and the counter ratchet (176) are effective in the same direction.

13. The dispenser (10) of any of the preceding claims, whereina spring (60) biases the piston rod (50) towards the front end (11), in particular the spring (60) being at least partially, preferably entirely, accommodated in the drive tube (136).medmix Switzerland AG M29317PWO 11214. The dispenser (10) of any of the preceding claims, whereinthe piston rod (50) is in threaded engagement with each of the drive nut (34) and the body nut (54), the respective threads of the drive nut (34) and the body nut (54) being counter directed and a pitch of the drive nut thread is the same as or different to a pitch of the body nut thread, in particular a drive nut thread being larger than a body nut thread.

15. The dispenser (10) of any of the preceding claims, whereinthe dispenser (10) comprising a tank (16) storing a material, in particular wherein an axial movement of the piston rod (50) towards the front end (11) of the dispenser (10) results in a discharge of the material out of the tank (16) attached to the dispenser (10).

16. The dispenser (10) of claim 15, whereinthe tank (16) is releasably connectable to the dispenser (10) by a bayonet type connection means, the bayonet type connection means comprising a groove (118) with an axial portion (118a) extending along the longitudinal axis (L) and a circumferential portion (118b) extending about the longitudinal axis (L), the axial portion (118a) and the circumferential portion (118b) being angled at an angle larger than 90° and smaller than 180°, preferably between 91° and 110°, more preferably between 93° and 99°, for instance 95°.

17. The dispenser (10) of claim 15 or 16, whereinthe tank (16) comprises a stop means (280) that prevents a rotation of the tank (16) connected to the dispenser (10), in particular in a fully assembled state of the dispenser (10).

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