CA1340054C - Sealless modular dispenser - Google Patents
Sealless modular dispenserInfo
- Publication number
- CA1340054C CA1340054C CA000617024A CA617024A CA1340054C CA 1340054 C CA1340054 C CA 1340054C CA 000617024 A CA000617024 A CA 000617024A CA 617024 A CA617024 A CA 617024A CA 1340054 C CA1340054 C CA 1340054C
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- piston
- valve
- fluid product
- valve seat
- dispensing
- Prior art date
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Abstract
Modular apparatus for dispensing precise quantities of a fluid product including a dispensing unit and an actuator unit. A housing of the dispensing unit defines a reservoir which contains the product under pressure.
Within the housing is a ball-type valve mechanism. A
deformable diaphragm isolates the reservoir from the mechanism which actuates the valve to prevent undesirable entry of the product. The diaphragm may be of a number of shapes, depending upon the length of the stroke desired for the ball mechanism. The dispensing unit is readily removable from the actuator unit and can be readily replaced with another dispensing unit. Different nozzle sizes can also be accommodated. The extent of the valve opening is adjustable in discrete increments.
Within the housing is a ball-type valve mechanism. A
deformable diaphragm isolates the reservoir from the mechanism which actuates the valve to prevent undesirable entry of the product. The diaphragm may be of a number of shapes, depending upon the length of the stroke desired for the ball mechanism. The dispensing unit is readily removable from the actuator unit and can be readily replaced with another dispensing unit. Different nozzle sizes can also be accommodated. The extent of the valve opening is adjustable in discrete increments.
Description
10~rl~1 SEALLESS MODULAR DISPENSER
This application is a divisional application of serial number 595,103, filed March 29, 1989.
The present invention relates generally to fluid dispensing mechanisms and, more particularly, to an improved modular dispenser system of simplified construction in which the dispenser module does not require seals, particularly sliding seals, or springs for its operation, yet applies precisely controlled quantities of the fluid to a receiving surface.
In one known dispenser design, a spring biased piston is pneumatically operated to open and close a valve, as needed, to control the flow of fluid to be dispensed from an outlet nozzle. The piston is provided with seals to prevent flow of the fluid in directions other than through the valve and these seals are subject to deterioration and wear, particularly when the fluid being dispensed is heated.
In another known dispenser design, a diaphragm can be moved by an actuating rod between a bowed position enabling flow to occur between inlet and outlet conduits and a planar position interrupting such flow. Again, proper sealing of the valve to prevent flow of the fluid into the actuating mechanism is a continuing problem.
It is noteworthy that, loss of the fluid that does not issue from the outlet nozzle but finds it way instead into other cavities of the dispensing mechanism is a concern. When the fluid is a sealant or adhesive material, it subsequently accumulates, then hardens, and thereby has a detrimental effect on the operation of the dispensing mechanism, even to the point of rendering it inoperative.
1~ o o ~ ~l It is an object of the present invention to provide a modular dispensing system having a dispenser module which does not require dynamic seals or springs for its operation and which applies precisely controlled quantities of fluids having a wide range of viscosities (e.g. from one to one million centipoise).
According to one aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for dispensing precise quantities of a fluid product comprising: a housi~g defining 2 reservoir fo-containing the fluid product under pressure; a valve seat on said housing defining an outlet for dispensing the fluid product from said reservoir; valve means having a spheroid face facing said valve seat and being movable along an actuating axis between an open position away from said valve seat for dispensing the fluid product from said reservoir and a closed position in contact engagement with said valve seat for inhibiting or stopping the dispensing of the fluid product from said reservoir; actuator means comprising an operative mechanism for moving said valve means between the open and closed positions along the actuating axis; a valve stem whose axis is coincident with said actuating axis and which is movable along said actuating axis for transferring the movement Gl ,aid operative mechanism to said valve means; and a deformable diaphragm for isolating said reservoir from said operative mechanism extending transversely of said actuating axis and sealingly fixed at spaced regions to said housing and to said valve stem.
According to another aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for dispensing precise quantities of a fluid product including cyanoacrylates and anaerobic adhesives comprising: a housing defining a reservoir for containing the fluid product under pressure; a valve seat on said housing defining an outlet ~or dispensing the fluid product from said reservoir; valve means movable along an actuating axis between an op~n position away from said valve seat for dispensing the fluid product from said reservoir and a closed position in contact engagement with said valve seat for inhibiting or stopping the dispensing of the fluid product from said reservoir; actuator means comprising an operative mechanism for moving said valve means between the open and closed positions along said actuating axis; a valve stem whose axis is coincident with s2id actuating axis and which is moYa~le '~-.g said actuating axis for trar.sferring the movement of saia operative mechanism to said~valve means; and a deformable diaphragm composed of a material compatible with the fluid product for isolating said reservoir from said operative mechanism extending transversely of said actuating axis and sealingly fixed at spaced regions to said housing and to said valve stem.
According to another aspect, the present invention provides a modular system for dispensing precise quantities of a fluid product and for allowing quick change of dispensing units comprising: a self-contained dispensing unit including dispensing means for dispensing the fluid product when in an open configuratiorLand for stopping or prohibiting dispensing when in a closed configuration; a self contained actuator unit including actuating means for effecting said dispensing means between the open and closed configurations; and mutually engageable locking means on said dispensing unit and on said actuator unit for releasably fixedly attaching said dispensing unit to said actuator unit.
According to another aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for dispensing precise quantities of a fluid product comprising dispensing means for dispensing the fluid product when in any one of a plur2'ity of open 1~4~0~ll configurations and for stopping or prohibiting the dispensing thereof when in a closed configuration;
actuator means for effecting said dispensing means between the open and closed configurations comprising an operative mechanism and an actuator body; and adjustment means for selectively adjusting operation of said actuator means enabling it to effect said dispensing means between any one of a plurality of open configurations and the closed configuration, said adjustment means comprising a threaded shank integral with szid opera_ive mech~nism, a tubular stud internally threaaed and threadedly engaged with said shank, said stud also being externally threaded, said external threads being coarser than said internal threads, a stroke adjuster nut threadedly received on said stud and lS keyed to said actuator body to prevent relative rotation therebetween about said actuating axis, said adjuster nut being movable along said actuating axis coincidental with the rotation of the stud about said actuating axis to a plurality of positions between a first position, relative to the terminal surface of said actuator body, wherein said piston is rendered immobile or nonactuatable or wherein said piston is movable or actuatable to its least extent and a second position distant from said first position wherein said piston is movable or actuatabie to its greatest extent and thus enabling said valve gate to open to its fully open position.
The invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
13~o~
Fiq. 1 is a front elevation ~iew, largely cut away and in- section, of mo~ SF~ing apparatus em~odying the invention;
.
Fig. 2 is a front elevation v~eW~ çena_all~-5~m;1ar to ~ig. 1, o~ ~he apparat~s partly exploded and partly cut away and in section, the L0 lower part being rotated by 9O~ about the longitt~in~l axis from the position illustrated in Fig. 1;
Fig. 3 is an exploded view of dispensing and nozzle units comprising par~ of the apparatus illustrated in Fig. l;
Figs. 4 and 5 are elevation views, largely cut away and in section, illustrating the dispensin~
and nozzle units of Fig. 3 in the assembled conditian and showing, respectively, two operational positions thereof;
Fig. 4A is a detail elevatian view, partly in cection, of another ~ho~ nt of parts illustrated in Figs. 4 and 5;
Fig. 6 is an exploded view of actuator and adjustment units comprising part of the apparat~s illustrated in Fig. 1;
, 1 3 ~
Figs. 7 and 8 are elevation ~iews, in section, illustrating the actuator and adjustment units o~
Fig. 6 in the assembled condition and showing, res~ectively, two operational positions o~ the adjustment unit;
Fig. 9 (on the sheet containing Fig. 6) is an elevational view of one component illustrated in Figs. 6-8;
Flg. lO is a detail cross section view taken generally along line lO--10 in Fig. 9;
Figs. 11-16 are detail elevation views, partly in section, illustrating other emho~; m~ts of a ~i~r~ram construction which can be utili2ed by the invention; and Figs. 17 and lB are front elevation views similar, ~0 respectively, to Figs. 1 and 2, of another ~i~ent of the invention, the lower part of Fig. 18 being rotated bv 9O~ about the longitudinal axis f_om thc position llustrated in Fig. 17.
I3400.~
Turn now to the drawings and, initially, to Figs_ 1 and 2, which illu~Lr~e mcAl~lAr ~iSF~cing apparatus 20 embodying th- present invention. The apparatus 20 is inten~o~ to have the capability o~
dispensing a broad range of fluid products, many of which are highly injurious to materials and including cy~noArrylates and anaerobic adhesi~es.
The apparatus 20 comprises a aispensing unit 22, a nozzle unit 24, an actuator unit 26, and an adjustment unit 28. Each of these units will be described in detail together with an explanation of their interrelationship.
The description will begin with the dispensing unit 22 which includes a cylindrical housing 30 with an end member 32 of reduced diameter. While the housing 30 is- described and illustrated as being cylindrical and thereby conforms with all o~-the other units i~lustrated in Figs. 1 and 2, such shape, while preferred, is not -int~n~ to be lLmiting of the inYention. - An insert 34 is fittingly receivable within the housing 30. The insert 34 defines a reservoir 36 capable of rec~iving pressurized product from a distant source (not shown) ~ia an inlet 38 in the housing 30 and an aligned inlet 39 in the insert. It will be appreciated that the housing 30 and insert 3~4 may be of one piece construction and that they are only described as being separate for ease of fabrication.
.5 ~
-8~
A valve seat 40 is fittingly received i~ 2 count~-hore 42 formed at an end of the insert 34 The valve seat 40 which is preferably formed wit~
a ~onic~l C~re~ clos~re s~rfaca 41 is c~m~--e~ of a suitable material ccmpatible with a ~luid prod~ct to be disp~n~n~, the ~2terial including blt not limite~ to, ~elrin* ~rand nla~tic;
palyethylene, poly~uy~lene, nylon, polyester, metals including stainless steel and pre~erably 316 stainless steel, ceramics, and most preferably fluorinated hydro~rhon poly~er, for example, Teflo~ brand plastic.
The end of the housing 30 opposite the end member 32 is internally threaded so as to receive a cap member 44. A tu~ular ret~ r --46 is fittinsly - received in a counterbore 48 formed within the cap member 44. ~hen the cap ~ember is tightened onto the housing 30, the ret~;n~r 46 bears against the val~e seat 40 and, in turn, a~ainst the .insert ~4.
A defor~able ~i~ph-agm 5~ which may be compcsed o~
any suitable deformable material compatible with the fluid product being disp~c~ extends transversely of a longi~t~ aY;~ of the housing - 30. Such suitable materials may be any of those recited above with respect to the valve seat, with the ~ ion of cera~ics. The outer peripheral regions 52 of the ~ hragm 50 tsee ~ig. 3) are captured between the insert 34 and a shoulder 53 of the housing 30 when the cap mem~er 44 is fully tightened onto the housinq. As seen most clearly in Fig. 3, the d~aphragm 50 has a central aperture * Trade-mark 1~4~0S4 g 54 which allows it to freely receive a threaded stud 56 extending from a distal portion 58 of an elongated stem member 60 ~Figs. 4 and 5).
A proximal extension 62 of the stem member 60 is threadedly engaged with the stud 56 and when tightened down onto the diaphragm 50, the stem member 60 and the diaphragm 50 operate in a unitary manner. The proximal extension 62 is provided with a longitudinal flat 256 (Figs. 2 and 3) which serves as a keyway and prevents rotation of the extenRion when the flat 256 is engaged by a set screw 258 threaded within housing 30. A distal end of the distal portion 58 has a longitudinally extending threaded bore therein to receive a fastener 64 (see Figs. 4 and 5). The fastener is slidably received through a diametrically extending bore in a ball 66 which may be composed of any suitable material compatible with the fluid product being dispensed. Such a suitable material may be any of those materials of which the valve seat 40 may be composed. When the fastener 64 is tightened onto the distal portion 58 of the stem member 60, the ball is integral, and operates in unison, with the stem member and its associated diaphragm 50. It will be apprecialed that the inventior. s not to be restricted to a valve gate in the form of the ball 66 but that it may be of any suitable shape that results in a proper closure of the opening between the reservoir 36 and the nozzle unit 24.
The ball 66 is preferred because it results in a line contact, and not an area contact, between the ball and the closure surface 41. Other suitable shapes of valve gates, however, which may not be spherical but which have a spheroidal face for contacting valve seat 41, such as indicated at 66A in Fig. 4A, may also be effectively used.
~he nozzle unit 24 t n~l ~drs a nounting end 68 whic~ ~Yt~n~c through a longi~t n~ I bore 70 formed in the cap ~er 44, then into the.
Lnterior of the re~in~r 46. An ~nn~ r groove ~2 formed a short distance away from an innermost end of the nozzle unit 24 serves to receive an O-ring seal 74 which assures pA~C~e of product, in ~
m~ner ~o be ~ P~, through - ~ollcw .ne2d~e me~ber 76. The cap mem~er 44 is for~ed wit~ a diametrically ext~ g slot 78 whose ~ o~e is to receivably engag~ oppositely ext~n~in~ bayonet type extensions 80 int~gral with the nozzle unit 24. By reason of this construction, the di~pensing unit 22 can accommodate, one at a time, a variety of sizes of nozzle units 24. A nczzle unit can be removed by twisting it slightly around its longit~in~l axis, then pulling it outward of the bare 70. A new or di~ferent nazzle unit 24 can then be at~h~ by reversing the operation just described.
- The actuator unit 26, also as seen in Figs. 1 and 2, and with more detail in Figs. 6-8, includes an elongated cylin~r 82 with a longit~in~lty 2S ex~e~ins central bore 84 for~ed in its intermediate regions, a distal counterbore 86, and a proximal counter~are 8~. 80th counter~ores 86 and 88 communicate with and are ~ri~lly aligned relative to the central ~ore 84. ~n actuator shaft 90 is slidingly received in the central ~ar~
84 and is integral with a piston 92 which is dispcsed within the counter~cre 86. The piston g2, and with it actuator shaft 90, is , ~ .. "~ . .. .. . .. ~
'. l34n~
--ll--reciprocable along an actuating axis which is the longitudinal axis of the cylinder 82. The piston 92 may be fluid operated, preferably pneumatic, although other fluid, including liquids, could be utilized. Indeed, it will be appreciated that the actuator unit 26 could be of a completely different type, for example, an electrically operated solenoid, or a mechanical cam. Also, operation of the actuator unit 26 may be under the control of an 1~ appropriate computer (not shownl. ~owever, in the lnstance of the LiU~d operat~d actuator unlt 26, O-ring seals 94 and 96 encircle the actuator shaft 90 at locations spaced in opposite directions from the piston 92. The piston 92 itself is also provided with a suitable O-ring seal 98.
Thus, viewing Fig. 1, in order to move the piston 92 downwardly, pressurized actuating fluid is introduced to a port 100 whereupon it is caused to flow via a conduit 102 into the counterbore 86 above the piston. Any actuating fluid within the counterbore 86 beneath the piston 92 is then exhausted via a conduit 104 within the end member 32 and a port 106 with which it communicates.
The actuator shaft 90 is prevented from rotating by means of a set screw 108 threadedly engaged w.tll ~he cylinder 82 and radially disposed therein having an extremity which is positioned proximate to a longitudinal flat 110 (Fig. 6) formed in the shaft which serves as a keyway. A
compression spring 112 is received in the counterbore 88 and one end rests on a supporting surface 114 thereof. In a 13400,~
~=nn~ which wilL be described ~ quently, the compressian spring 112 serves, ~ ntly, to retain the piston 92 in the retracted positicn illustrated in Fig. 1 when it is in the inactive~ - condition. That is, air or other actuating ~luid is normally used to mo~e the piston 92 to the inactive position, but the spring 112 is an added expe~;~nt for d~inq ~o in the eY~.t cf a loss o~
ac~uating fluid.
In a r~nn~r which will now be described, the piston 92 serves to operate the valve me~h~ni c~ as most specifically represented by the ball 66 operating in con~unction with the valve seat 40.
With continuing reference to Fig. 1, the end member 32 of the dispensing unit 22 is slidably received within the distal counterbore 86 o~ the actuating unit 26. An O-ring seal 116 suitably encircles the end member 32 short of its proximal end to ass~lre a c~l jn~ relationship between the cylinder 82 and th~ end ~ember 32. When an extreme distal rim 118 ~f the cylinder 82 firmly engages a shoulder 120 of the hausing 30, an ~nnul ~r groove 122 forme~ in the outer surface of the end member 32 is aligned with a plurality of cir~ferentially spaced set screws 124 threadedly engaged with the cylinder 82 and ext~ing r~ y therethrough. By reason of the . ~u~ ction just described, it will ~e 3~ appreciated that the dispensin~ unit 22 can be selectively attached to or rema~ed from the actuator unit 26 and, further, that when the respective units are ~o joined, they can be ~ ~5gjri'l prevented from separation by tight~ni~ the set screws 124 into engagement with the ~nm~ o~e 122.
It is also noted that the extreme end of the extension 62 is formed with a male T ~o-,rle~tor 126 (Fig. 3) which is engageable with a similarly formed female slot 128 (Fig. 6) in ~h2 Ji~t.cl ~nd cf ~he 3~art 3u. ~5 ~he dispe;sing uni~ Z2 is inserted into the actuating unit 2 0, the former is aligned so that the T ~olu.~_Lor 126 is properly received by the slot 128. Thereupon, the ~;sp~ing unit 22 is rotated 90 so that the T-connector 126 is properly oriented to pre~ent withdrawal of the stem member 60 from the actuator shaft 90. When this occurs, the stem member and the shaft are operable as a unit when they are moved along a longittl~; n~ 1 axis of the apparatus 20. Customarily, the set screws 124 would not be adjusted to engage the annular groove 122 until the T-conne~tor 126 had been fully engaged wi~h '~he slo' 128.
With reference now particularly to Figs. 6, 7, and 8, the adjustment unit 28 will now be described.
The adjustment unit 28 serves to selectively adjust operation of the piston g2 so that it moves the ball 66 off the seat 40 between any one of a plurality of open positions and the closed position. This con~pt will be explained in detail as the description proceeds. As seen particularly well in Figs. 7 and 8, a threaded shan~ 130 is integral with and ex~ends from a - 13~~~~-1 proxImal end o~ the actuator s~a~t so, that ic,-fro~ an end disl ~nt fr~m th~ piston 92. A~
int~rnAI 1y thr~ A stud 132 is thre~ y engaged with the th~eaded shank 130_ rhe s~ud 13Z
S is alsc extPr~ y threaded, the ext~rnA~ th~eads being coarser than the ~ rnAl threads. A stro~e adjuster nut 134 is thr~ ly rec~ d or. the stud 132 and ic keyE~ h~ ~y~in~r 82 to prevent rotation of said ~ut a~out the longitu~ 1 or ac~uating axis o~ the apparat~us 2C whereby rotation of said stud moves said nut along said axis.
This kay construction will now ~e described. As seen particularly well in Fig. 6, the stroke adjuster nut 134 is forned with four bores 136 which are parallel to a longitu~in~l axis of the cyli~er 82 and equally spaced circ~mferentially af the nut 134. The Cy7 ;n~r 82 is forDled with a threaded bore 138 adapted to receive a threaded stud 140. The axis of the bore l3a is at the same radial distance ~rom the longit~ n~ 1 axis of the cyl;n~- 82 as e~ch of ~he bor2s 136. In any event, the stroke adjuster nut 134 is properly positioned on the stud 132. Then ane of the holes 136 is aligned with the threaded bore 138, whe.~ the stud 140 is received through the bore 136 and thraadedly engaged with the bor~ 138.
In this manner, the nut 134 is held against rotation relative to the cy~ ~ 82, although it has freedom a~ axial movement relative to th~
cylinder 82.
The nu~ 134 is also formed with a radially directed bore 142 which, together with a l~O~
;
compression sprln5 144 and a ball 146 having a - diameter just slightly less than the bare 14Z, operates as- a deten~ in a ~nner which will be described shortly. With the spring 144 and the ball 146 held within the radial bore 142, a crown member 148 is thr~A~ly engaged with the stud 132. The stud extends all the way to the ~ottom of a thre2ded bore 150 of the c_own m~mker 148. A
set ~cre~- 152 is ~hr~ y e--g~ged with a r~; A lly directed bore 154 in the crown m~mher~
then advanced, until it engages the stud 132~
With the set screw 152 thereby engaging the stud 32, the crown member 148 and the stud 132 operate as a unit.
Integral with the crown member 148 is an annular skirt 156 which over~ies the outer surfac~ of the cylinder 82. As seen in Figs. 9 and 10, the inner peripheral surface of the skirt 156 is formed with a plurality of parallel, side-by-side, lonsitt~inAlly ext~ ng ~o~es 158, eac~ groove having approximately the same radius of curvatl~e as the ball 146. Indeed, the ball 146 engages one of the grooves 158 at a time. By reason of the resiliency of the spring 144, the crown member 148 can be rotated about its longitu~i n~ 1 axis, causing the ball 146 to ride over a ridge 160 intermediate adjoining groo~es 158 until it comes to rest in the next groove, and so forth. There is a fixed relatinnch;r bet~een the rotation of the crown member about the actuating axis and movement of the ad~uster nut 134 alcng the actuating axis. ~he apparatus 20 might be l3lloQ~
designed, for ~x~ple, s~ch that the adjuster nut 134 advances toward or retracts fro~ a t~r~in~l surface 162 of the cylin~r 82 at the rate of l/lOOOth of an inch per click, that is, movement of the ball 146 from one groove 158 to its adjoining groove.
ough Figs. 1-5 haYe consi--'ent~y ~_lustrate~
one form and construction of the ~i~phragm 50, it need not ~e so limited but may be of a variety of ch~p~- and constructions. However, in each instance the outer peripheral region of the diaphragm is held fixed while the central region is movable in a direction transverse to a general plane of the diaphragm.
For example, in Fig. ll, a modified diaphra~m 50A
is illustrated having its outer peripheral region 164 firmly held between suita~le retention members 166, 168. While the stem member 60 fixed to a central region 170 of the diaphragm 50~ is free to ~ove in a longit~ t direction, it is su~ject to the degree of elasticity present in the diaphragm in directions transverse to a plane of the diaphragm. Extre~e positions of the ~i~rhragm 50A are illustrated in Fig. 12.
Greater transverse ~ovement can ~e achieved with the constructions illustrated in Figs. 13 and 14.
30 - With respect to Fig. 13, another modified diaphragm 50B has its outer pe_ipheral region 172 fixedly held by retention members 174, 17~ wh i 1 G
its c~r.tral region 178 is fixed to the stem member 13 '~ O ~5~
60. The diaphragm 50B, which is illustrated in Fig. 13 in its relaxed condition, includes a first fold member 180 adjacent the central region 178 and a second fold member 182 adjacent the outer peripheral region 172. The fold members 180 and 182 intersect at an annular apex 184 which is of a living hinge construction. As seen in Fig. 13, the apex 184 lies out of the plane of the central region 178 and outer peripheral region 172 when the diaphragm 50B assumes its solid line position (Fi~. 13). When the stem m~mher 6(!
is moved along its longitudinal axis, it W'll be seen that the diaphragm can take either of the two extreme positions illustrated in Fig. 13 by means of dotted lines. It will be appreciated that the displacement from the norm obtainable with the diaphragm 50B is substantially greater than that obtainable with either the diaphragm 50 or 50A.
A variation on the construction of the diaphragm 50B is illustrated in Fig. 14 in which another modified diaphragm 50C is illustrated. In this instance, the diaphragm has an outer peripheral region 186 which is fixed between suitable retention members 188, 190 and a central region 192 which is fixed to the stem memb-r 60. In this instance, a plurality of concent ic fold members 194, 196 CGoperate with a like plurality of fold members 198, 200. Each adjoining pair of fold members defines an annular apex 202, 204, and 206, respectively, each of which is a living hinge. Upon actuation of the stem member 60, the 13~00S~
-h8-~ h~asm 50C can be moved to the e~LL~2 positions ; n~ ir~ted by dotted lines in Fig. 14 in which all of the fold members are movable toward a generally mutually c~planar relationch; r .
Still another construction is illustrated in Fig.
15 in which an outer cylindr--al re_cntion member 208 wnich ~y ~e a hc~sing itsel~ or an insert within that housing is for~ed with an internal annular slot 210 therein. The slot 210 is capable of receiving and holding an outer peripheral region 212 of another modified diaphragm 5~D whose central region 214 is fixed to the stem m~ber 6~.
Yet another construction is i~lustrated in Fig. 16 in which an outer retainer 216 and a modified diaphragm 50E are integral. The components may be fa~ricated, for exa~ple, of an injection molded plastic material. An outer peripheral region of the ~;~rhragm 50E, in this construction, is integr~l ~ith the retainer 216 but, aga n, it has a central region 218 which is fixed to the stem member 60. As in the previously descri~ed constructions, the ~te2 m~er is movable along its longit~ n~l axis within defined limits depending upon the de~rae of elasticity present in the diaphragm.
OP~ATION
The operation of the modular dispensing apparatus 20 will now be described. The particular fluid to ~e dispensed, which may be, for example, a sealant or adhesive mat~rial in the form of a slurry, or ~ 3 Ll ~
.
~ 19 o~herwise, is i~.LLo~ Dd, under pressure, via inlets 38 and 39 sc as to fill the reservoir 36.
At an a~ Liate tI~e, the actuator unit 26 is operated to- dispense the product fr~m the S dispensing unit 22. Viewin~ FIG. l, this is achieved by introducing pressurized fluid, air for exam~le, via the pc~t lOC tc the upper siae of ~ n 92. This moveC the actuator sha~t 9~
downwardly and, with it, the stem member 50. This causes the diaphragm 50 to move from the position illustrated in FIG. 4 to that illus.rated in FIG.
5 and, simultaneously, moves the ball 66 off the valve seat 40 as respectively seen in those those illustrations. Flow of the fluid product through the nozzle 24 thereupon commences. Subsequently, when it is desired to ter~inate the dispense operation, the foregoing procedure, is reversed in that air is introduced throug~s the port 106 to - the lower side of the piston 92 (Fig. 1) and exhausted through the port 100. In this manner, the ball 66 is returned to the closure surface 41 and the flow of the rluid product ceases.
The downward ~ovement of the piston 92 and of the actuator shaft 90 is against the bias of ~e spring 112~
Furth~rmore, the stroke of the piston 92 is determined by the ~istance between the adjuster nut 134 and the ter~inal surface 162. FIG. 7 illu~trates a positioning of the adjuster nut 134 relative to the terminal surface 162 which will permit only a relati~ely small stroke by the piston and FIG. 8 illustrates such a relative ~ ~ ~ 9 0 5 Ll positioning as will permit a relatively long stroke for the piston.
of course, it is the stroke cf the piston g2, as S permitted by the adjuster nut 134, which det~rrines the extent of the opening of the valve, that is the movement of the ball 66 off the valve se~t 4~. ~he farther off ~ c~t ~ o t~ b2' ' ~o moves, the qreater is the flow rate permitted by the dispensing unit 22 up to the point at which the spacing between the ball and the closure surface 41 is equal to the spacing between the ball and the ch~mher downstream o~ the closure s~rface. The product then flows through the retainer 46, then through the needle member 76 of the nozzle unit 24 and onto a surface intended to receive the prod~ct. When it is intended to ter~inate the -dispensing operation, pressurized alr is introduced to the lower side af the piston 92 via the port 1 0 6 and air on the upper side of the piston ~2 is exhausted through th- port 1~'. The spring 112, which aids in thls operation, serves pri~2rily to close the ~alve in the event no press~rized air is available for the purpose.
It was explained above that an important feature of the dispenser 20 is its ability to provide a controlled suck-~ac~ of the fluid product at the end af a dispensing period. It will be 3~ - appreciatPd that a dispensin~ period may end after laying either one drop or a continuous bead. The duration of opening of the valve is of no co~.se~ence with respect to suc~-bac~. What is or - , ", . . . . ~ , , . . . ," ,.. .
~ impartance is the ability of the disp~n~r to avoid stringin~ and dripping cf the ~luid product wit~ou~ undesirably drawing air into the fluid product within the reserYoir 36. When the ball 66 is moved off the closure surface 41 by a distance substantially equal to the spacing between the ball and ~he 3uter wzli of the chamber into which ~l a~Yances, ~ maximu~ fiow ~2te ~ ha-ve De~n achieved when a constant pressure is applied to the fluid product upstre~m thereof. That is, moving the ball 66 a farther distance away from the closure surface 41 will not thereafter have any effect on the flow rate.
However, this distance has a dlrect effec' on the amount of suc~-bac~ applied to the fluid product upan return of the ball 66 into enqagement with t~e closure surface 41. Upon retraction of the ball 66, a partial vacuum is created downstream therefrom and this suction serves to ~raw the fluid product from the nozzle 24 bac~ toward the reservoir 36. The amount of vaclum thus created is proportional to the distance which the ball 66 moves off the closure s~rface 41. If, for a particular fluid product, the ball is moved too far off .he closure s~rface, air would be drawn into the fluid product and resulting air bubbles within the fluid product would have an undesirable affect on subsequent dispenses. Conversely, if movement of the ball 66 off the closure surface 41 were too small a distanc~, stringing and dripping af the fluid product from the nozzle 24 wculd not ~e prevented. Thus, suck-~ack is a function of the distance the ball 66 travels away fr~m the clc~ure sur~ace 41 and also of the viscosity c~
~he ~luid product since air is mor2 easily drawn into a fluid of low viscosity than one of high viscosity. By adjusting the distanc~ which the ball 66 moves off the closure surface 41, the adjust~2nt un~ servas to ~-on~rol ~ne suc~-~ac~
capability o~ l~he dic~e~sinS apparatus 20, in addi~ion to controlling, in part, the flow through the nozzle, and this can be selected according to the particular fluid product ~eing dispensed.
The apparatus 20 is of a modular design in that it per~its various combinations of actuator units 26, diaphragms, dispensins units 22, and nozzle units 24. The dispenser of the invention is considered sealless because the dis~ensing unit 22 completely lac~s the sliding seals of the type which have heretofore customarily been employed in fluid dispensing apparat~s and which typically fail in their operation when the seals fail. In this instance, the diaphraqm 50 is the sole component utilized to isolate the act~ator unit 26 from the dispensing unit 22. While axial movement is permitted by reason of the deforma~ility of the diaphragm, it is held fixed at both its interior locations and its outer pe~ipheral locations to pre~ent any possibility o~ the product passing ~rom the reservoir 36 into the me~nisr o~ the zctuator unit. Additionally, this const.uction allows quick change of dispenalng uniis without loss of product. Wear and fric-tional losses and loss of produc' are avoided by reason of this construction.
O ~
Another, and pref-rred, e~bodiment of the actuating unit will now be described with reference to Figs. 1~ and 18. In this regard, a modified actuator unit 26A includes an elongated outer sleeve 220 which defines a longit~in~lly ext~in~ bcre 222 eY~ q its full length. A
pair of similar but cppositeiy disposed ' 3uppor_ me~bQrs 22~ ara f t~insl~
rec~ived in the bore 222 at spaced locations.
Each of t~e support ~embers 224 has a longi~in~l1y ext~n~in~ bore 226 which is coaxial with the longitll~;n~l axis of the sleeve 222.
Each support member 224 alsc has a counter~ore 228. The space defined by the counterbore 228 in the lower suppart member 224 (Fig. 17) serves to receive a modified compression spring 112A
which operates in substantially the same manner as the spring 112. A modified act~ator shaft gOA is slidingly received in the bores 226 of the su~port r?mh~rs 224 and is integr~i wi~ G modified piston 92A which is disposed within the bore 222. As in the pre~ious embodiment, the piston 92A, and with it the actuator shaft 90A, is reciprocable along an actuating axis which is the longittl~in~l axis of the outer sleeve 220. In the same fashion, the piston 92A may be fluid operated, preferably pneu~atic, and 0-ring seals 230 and 232, respecti~ely, encircle the actuator shaft 9~A and the support member 224 at locations spaced in opposite directions from the piston 92A. The piston 92A itself is also provided with a suitable 0-rins seal ~8 as in the prev~ous emD~diment.
7 .5 '~
In this embo~ t, Ln order to m~ve the piston 92A downwardly (Fig. 17), pressurized actuating ~luid is i~ o~uced to cooperating ports 234, 236, respectively, in the outer sleeve 220 and in S upper support member 224. Downward movement of the piston 92A causes actuating fluid to eYhaust via ports 23~ 0, r~spect~vely, i.. ~e lower ~-~pp-~ ~2~er 224 and in the outer ~ ~'v'~ 220.
As in the instance of the prior em~odiment, downward movement of the piston 92A is accomplished against the bias cf the spring 112A.
According to this embodiment, a modified dispensing unit 22A is also provided. In this instance, a modified end member 32A has a dep~; ng annular skirt 242 whlch is mechanically crimped onto a suitable annular surface 244 at an upper end of a modified cylindrical housing 30A.
The outer peripheral regions 52 of the diaphrasm 50 are there~y firmly fixed bet-~een the end member 32A and the h~using 3aA. A pair of ret~ r rings 246 preven~ longit~ Al movement of the support members 224 toward the ends of the sleeve 220 and, at the -lower end thereof, define a reception cavity 248 (Fig. 18) for fitting reception of the end member 32A. When a pair of mating apertures 250 and 252 in the end member 32A and sleeve 220 - are appropriately aligned, a suita~le loc~ins r~~h~r 2S4 which may utilize, for example, a ball and detent loc~ing me~h~n;sm, is then inserted through the apertures to releasably m~unt the ~ispensing unit 22A onto the ac_~ator uni~ 26~.
.. .~. ., i, ~ " , . .. .
. .
13~05'i A primary feature a~ this madified c~ L~ction is the fact that the ports 234, 236,238,240 for the actuating fluid are completely within the actuator unit 26A and are not related in any way to the ~iC~ ing unit 22A. As a result, the dispensing unit 22A may be de~h~d from or attached to the actuator ~n't 25.~ cu' '~he n~CFcsi2y of first di~connecting the actuator unit from the source of actuating fluid. rn~e~ the s~urce of actuating fluid may remain connected to the actuator unit regardless of whether the dispensing unit 22A is mounted therecn.
~hile it is ac~nowledged that there are other dvnamic seals in the apparatus 20, for example, o-ring seals 94, 96, 98, and 116, these are seals within the actuator unit 26 and not directly involved with, or concerned with, the product being dispensed. The 0-ring seal 74 is associated with the nozz~e unit ~-~ ana, _herefore, also not directly with the dispensin~ unit 22. In any event, its condition is easily observable and it can be readily removed along with the nozzle unit and replaced if it b~c~res defective.
Furthermore, it is not a dynamic, or sliding type seal, which is the type of seal with which the invention is concerned and serves to replace.
This application is a divisional application of serial number 595,103, filed March 29, 1989.
The present invention relates generally to fluid dispensing mechanisms and, more particularly, to an improved modular dispenser system of simplified construction in which the dispenser module does not require seals, particularly sliding seals, or springs for its operation, yet applies precisely controlled quantities of the fluid to a receiving surface.
In one known dispenser design, a spring biased piston is pneumatically operated to open and close a valve, as needed, to control the flow of fluid to be dispensed from an outlet nozzle. The piston is provided with seals to prevent flow of the fluid in directions other than through the valve and these seals are subject to deterioration and wear, particularly when the fluid being dispensed is heated.
In another known dispenser design, a diaphragm can be moved by an actuating rod between a bowed position enabling flow to occur between inlet and outlet conduits and a planar position interrupting such flow. Again, proper sealing of the valve to prevent flow of the fluid into the actuating mechanism is a continuing problem.
It is noteworthy that, loss of the fluid that does not issue from the outlet nozzle but finds it way instead into other cavities of the dispensing mechanism is a concern. When the fluid is a sealant or adhesive material, it subsequently accumulates, then hardens, and thereby has a detrimental effect on the operation of the dispensing mechanism, even to the point of rendering it inoperative.
1~ o o ~ ~l It is an object of the present invention to provide a modular dispensing system having a dispenser module which does not require dynamic seals or springs for its operation and which applies precisely controlled quantities of fluids having a wide range of viscosities (e.g. from one to one million centipoise).
According to one aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for dispensing precise quantities of a fluid product comprising: a housi~g defining 2 reservoir fo-containing the fluid product under pressure; a valve seat on said housing defining an outlet for dispensing the fluid product from said reservoir; valve means having a spheroid face facing said valve seat and being movable along an actuating axis between an open position away from said valve seat for dispensing the fluid product from said reservoir and a closed position in contact engagement with said valve seat for inhibiting or stopping the dispensing of the fluid product from said reservoir; actuator means comprising an operative mechanism for moving said valve means between the open and closed positions along the actuating axis; a valve stem whose axis is coincident with said actuating axis and which is movable along said actuating axis for transferring the movement Gl ,aid operative mechanism to said valve means; and a deformable diaphragm for isolating said reservoir from said operative mechanism extending transversely of said actuating axis and sealingly fixed at spaced regions to said housing and to said valve stem.
According to another aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for dispensing precise quantities of a fluid product including cyanoacrylates and anaerobic adhesives comprising: a housing defining a reservoir for containing the fluid product under pressure; a valve seat on said housing defining an outlet ~or dispensing the fluid product from said reservoir; valve means movable along an actuating axis between an op~n position away from said valve seat for dispensing the fluid product from said reservoir and a closed position in contact engagement with said valve seat for inhibiting or stopping the dispensing of the fluid product from said reservoir; actuator means comprising an operative mechanism for moving said valve means between the open and closed positions along said actuating axis; a valve stem whose axis is coincident with s2id actuating axis and which is moYa~le '~-.g said actuating axis for trar.sferring the movement of saia operative mechanism to said~valve means; and a deformable diaphragm composed of a material compatible with the fluid product for isolating said reservoir from said operative mechanism extending transversely of said actuating axis and sealingly fixed at spaced regions to said housing and to said valve stem.
According to another aspect, the present invention provides a modular system for dispensing precise quantities of a fluid product and for allowing quick change of dispensing units comprising: a self-contained dispensing unit including dispensing means for dispensing the fluid product when in an open configuratiorLand for stopping or prohibiting dispensing when in a closed configuration; a self contained actuator unit including actuating means for effecting said dispensing means between the open and closed configurations; and mutually engageable locking means on said dispensing unit and on said actuator unit for releasably fixedly attaching said dispensing unit to said actuator unit.
According to another aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for dispensing precise quantities of a fluid product comprising dispensing means for dispensing the fluid product when in any one of a plur2'ity of open 1~4~0~ll configurations and for stopping or prohibiting the dispensing thereof when in a closed configuration;
actuator means for effecting said dispensing means between the open and closed configurations comprising an operative mechanism and an actuator body; and adjustment means for selectively adjusting operation of said actuator means enabling it to effect said dispensing means between any one of a plurality of open configurations and the closed configuration, said adjustment means comprising a threaded shank integral with szid opera_ive mech~nism, a tubular stud internally threaaed and threadedly engaged with said shank, said stud also being externally threaded, said external threads being coarser than said internal threads, a stroke adjuster nut threadedly received on said stud and lS keyed to said actuator body to prevent relative rotation therebetween about said actuating axis, said adjuster nut being movable along said actuating axis coincidental with the rotation of the stud about said actuating axis to a plurality of positions between a first position, relative to the terminal surface of said actuator body, wherein said piston is rendered immobile or nonactuatable or wherein said piston is movable or actuatable to its least extent and a second position distant from said first position wherein said piston is movable or actuatabie to its greatest extent and thus enabling said valve gate to open to its fully open position.
The invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
13~o~
Fiq. 1 is a front elevation ~iew, largely cut away and in- section, of mo~ SF~ing apparatus em~odying the invention;
.
Fig. 2 is a front elevation v~eW~ çena_all~-5~m;1ar to ~ig. 1, o~ ~he apparat~s partly exploded and partly cut away and in section, the L0 lower part being rotated by 9O~ about the longitt~in~l axis from the position illustrated in Fig. 1;
Fig. 3 is an exploded view of dispensing and nozzle units comprising par~ of the apparatus illustrated in Fig. l;
Figs. 4 and 5 are elevation views, largely cut away and in section, illustrating the dispensin~
and nozzle units of Fig. 3 in the assembled conditian and showing, respectively, two operational positions thereof;
Fig. 4A is a detail elevatian view, partly in cection, of another ~ho~ nt of parts illustrated in Figs. 4 and 5;
Fig. 6 is an exploded view of actuator and adjustment units comprising part of the apparat~s illustrated in Fig. 1;
, 1 3 ~
Figs. 7 and 8 are elevation ~iews, in section, illustrating the actuator and adjustment units o~
Fig. 6 in the assembled condition and showing, res~ectively, two operational positions o~ the adjustment unit;
Fig. 9 (on the sheet containing Fig. 6) is an elevational view of one component illustrated in Figs. 6-8;
Flg. lO is a detail cross section view taken generally along line lO--10 in Fig. 9;
Figs. 11-16 are detail elevation views, partly in section, illustrating other emho~; m~ts of a ~i~r~ram construction which can be utili2ed by the invention; and Figs. 17 and lB are front elevation views similar, ~0 respectively, to Figs. 1 and 2, of another ~i~ent of the invention, the lower part of Fig. 18 being rotated bv 9O~ about the longitudinal axis f_om thc position llustrated in Fig. 17.
I3400.~
Turn now to the drawings and, initially, to Figs_ 1 and 2, which illu~Lr~e mcAl~lAr ~iSF~cing apparatus 20 embodying th- present invention. The apparatus 20 is inten~o~ to have the capability o~
dispensing a broad range of fluid products, many of which are highly injurious to materials and including cy~noArrylates and anaerobic adhesi~es.
The apparatus 20 comprises a aispensing unit 22, a nozzle unit 24, an actuator unit 26, and an adjustment unit 28. Each of these units will be described in detail together with an explanation of their interrelationship.
The description will begin with the dispensing unit 22 which includes a cylindrical housing 30 with an end member 32 of reduced diameter. While the housing 30 is- described and illustrated as being cylindrical and thereby conforms with all o~-the other units i~lustrated in Figs. 1 and 2, such shape, while preferred, is not -int~n~ to be lLmiting of the inYention. - An insert 34 is fittingly receivable within the housing 30. The insert 34 defines a reservoir 36 capable of rec~iving pressurized product from a distant source (not shown) ~ia an inlet 38 in the housing 30 and an aligned inlet 39 in the insert. It will be appreciated that the housing 30 and insert 3~4 may be of one piece construction and that they are only described as being separate for ease of fabrication.
.5 ~
-8~
A valve seat 40 is fittingly received i~ 2 count~-hore 42 formed at an end of the insert 34 The valve seat 40 which is preferably formed wit~
a ~onic~l C~re~ clos~re s~rfaca 41 is c~m~--e~ of a suitable material ccmpatible with a ~luid prod~ct to be disp~n~n~, the ~2terial including blt not limite~ to, ~elrin* ~rand nla~tic;
palyethylene, poly~uy~lene, nylon, polyester, metals including stainless steel and pre~erably 316 stainless steel, ceramics, and most preferably fluorinated hydro~rhon poly~er, for example, Teflo~ brand plastic.
The end of the housing 30 opposite the end member 32 is internally threaded so as to receive a cap member 44. A tu~ular ret~ r --46 is fittinsly - received in a counterbore 48 formed within the cap member 44. ~hen the cap ~ember is tightened onto the housing 30, the ret~;n~r 46 bears against the val~e seat 40 and, in turn, a~ainst the .insert ~4.
A defor~able ~i~ph-agm 5~ which may be compcsed o~
any suitable deformable material compatible with the fluid product being disp~c~ extends transversely of a longi~t~ aY;~ of the housing - 30. Such suitable materials may be any of those recited above with respect to the valve seat, with the ~ ion of cera~ics. The outer peripheral regions 52 of the ~ hragm 50 tsee ~ig. 3) are captured between the insert 34 and a shoulder 53 of the housing 30 when the cap mem~er 44 is fully tightened onto the housinq. As seen most clearly in Fig. 3, the d~aphragm 50 has a central aperture * Trade-mark 1~4~0S4 g 54 which allows it to freely receive a threaded stud 56 extending from a distal portion 58 of an elongated stem member 60 ~Figs. 4 and 5).
A proximal extension 62 of the stem member 60 is threadedly engaged with the stud 56 and when tightened down onto the diaphragm 50, the stem member 60 and the diaphragm 50 operate in a unitary manner. The proximal extension 62 is provided with a longitudinal flat 256 (Figs. 2 and 3) which serves as a keyway and prevents rotation of the extenRion when the flat 256 is engaged by a set screw 258 threaded within housing 30. A distal end of the distal portion 58 has a longitudinally extending threaded bore therein to receive a fastener 64 (see Figs. 4 and 5). The fastener is slidably received through a diametrically extending bore in a ball 66 which may be composed of any suitable material compatible with the fluid product being dispensed. Such a suitable material may be any of those materials of which the valve seat 40 may be composed. When the fastener 64 is tightened onto the distal portion 58 of the stem member 60, the ball is integral, and operates in unison, with the stem member and its associated diaphragm 50. It will be apprecialed that the inventior. s not to be restricted to a valve gate in the form of the ball 66 but that it may be of any suitable shape that results in a proper closure of the opening between the reservoir 36 and the nozzle unit 24.
The ball 66 is preferred because it results in a line contact, and not an area contact, between the ball and the closure surface 41. Other suitable shapes of valve gates, however, which may not be spherical but which have a spheroidal face for contacting valve seat 41, such as indicated at 66A in Fig. 4A, may also be effectively used.
~he nozzle unit 24 t n~l ~drs a nounting end 68 whic~ ~Yt~n~c through a longi~t n~ I bore 70 formed in the cap ~er 44, then into the.
Lnterior of the re~in~r 46. An ~nn~ r groove ~2 formed a short distance away from an innermost end of the nozzle unit 24 serves to receive an O-ring seal 74 which assures pA~C~e of product, in ~
m~ner ~o be ~ P~, through - ~ollcw .ne2d~e me~ber 76. The cap mem~er 44 is for~ed wit~ a diametrically ext~ g slot 78 whose ~ o~e is to receivably engag~ oppositely ext~n~in~ bayonet type extensions 80 int~gral with the nozzle unit 24. By reason of this construction, the di~pensing unit 22 can accommodate, one at a time, a variety of sizes of nozzle units 24. A nczzle unit can be removed by twisting it slightly around its longit~in~l axis, then pulling it outward of the bare 70. A new or di~ferent nazzle unit 24 can then be at~h~ by reversing the operation just described.
- The actuator unit 26, also as seen in Figs. 1 and 2, and with more detail in Figs. 6-8, includes an elongated cylin~r 82 with a longit~in~lty 2S ex~e~ins central bore 84 for~ed in its intermediate regions, a distal counterbore 86, and a proximal counter~are 8~. 80th counter~ores 86 and 88 communicate with and are ~ri~lly aligned relative to the central ~ore 84. ~n actuator shaft 90 is slidingly received in the central ~ar~
84 and is integral with a piston 92 which is dispcsed within the counter~cre 86. The piston g2, and with it actuator shaft 90, is , ~ .. "~ . .. .. . .. ~
'. l34n~
--ll--reciprocable along an actuating axis which is the longitudinal axis of the cylinder 82. The piston 92 may be fluid operated, preferably pneumatic, although other fluid, including liquids, could be utilized. Indeed, it will be appreciated that the actuator unit 26 could be of a completely different type, for example, an electrically operated solenoid, or a mechanical cam. Also, operation of the actuator unit 26 may be under the control of an 1~ appropriate computer (not shownl. ~owever, in the lnstance of the LiU~d operat~d actuator unlt 26, O-ring seals 94 and 96 encircle the actuator shaft 90 at locations spaced in opposite directions from the piston 92. The piston 92 itself is also provided with a suitable O-ring seal 98.
Thus, viewing Fig. 1, in order to move the piston 92 downwardly, pressurized actuating fluid is introduced to a port 100 whereupon it is caused to flow via a conduit 102 into the counterbore 86 above the piston. Any actuating fluid within the counterbore 86 beneath the piston 92 is then exhausted via a conduit 104 within the end member 32 and a port 106 with which it communicates.
The actuator shaft 90 is prevented from rotating by means of a set screw 108 threadedly engaged w.tll ~he cylinder 82 and radially disposed therein having an extremity which is positioned proximate to a longitudinal flat 110 (Fig. 6) formed in the shaft which serves as a keyway. A
compression spring 112 is received in the counterbore 88 and one end rests on a supporting surface 114 thereof. In a 13400,~
~=nn~ which wilL be described ~ quently, the compressian spring 112 serves, ~ ntly, to retain the piston 92 in the retracted positicn illustrated in Fig. 1 when it is in the inactive~ - condition. That is, air or other actuating ~luid is normally used to mo~e the piston 92 to the inactive position, but the spring 112 is an added expe~;~nt for d~inq ~o in the eY~.t cf a loss o~
ac~uating fluid.
In a r~nn~r which will now be described, the piston 92 serves to operate the valve me~h~ni c~ as most specifically represented by the ball 66 operating in con~unction with the valve seat 40.
With continuing reference to Fig. 1, the end member 32 of the dispensing unit 22 is slidably received within the distal counterbore 86 o~ the actuating unit 26. An O-ring seal 116 suitably encircles the end member 32 short of its proximal end to ass~lre a c~l jn~ relationship between the cylinder 82 and th~ end ~ember 32. When an extreme distal rim 118 ~f the cylinder 82 firmly engages a shoulder 120 of the hausing 30, an ~nnul ~r groove 122 forme~ in the outer surface of the end member 32 is aligned with a plurality of cir~ferentially spaced set screws 124 threadedly engaged with the cylinder 82 and ext~ing r~ y therethrough. By reason of the . ~u~ ction just described, it will ~e 3~ appreciated that the dispensin~ unit 22 can be selectively attached to or rema~ed from the actuator unit 26 and, further, that when the respective units are ~o joined, they can be ~ ~5gjri'l prevented from separation by tight~ni~ the set screws 124 into engagement with the ~nm~ o~e 122.
It is also noted that the extreme end of the extension 62 is formed with a male T ~o-,rle~tor 126 (Fig. 3) which is engageable with a similarly formed female slot 128 (Fig. 6) in ~h2 Ji~t.cl ~nd cf ~he 3~art 3u. ~5 ~he dispe;sing uni~ Z2 is inserted into the actuating unit 2 0, the former is aligned so that the T ~olu.~_Lor 126 is properly received by the slot 128. Thereupon, the ~;sp~ing unit 22 is rotated 90 so that the T-connector 126 is properly oriented to pre~ent withdrawal of the stem member 60 from the actuator shaft 90. When this occurs, the stem member and the shaft are operable as a unit when they are moved along a longittl~; n~ 1 axis of the apparatus 20. Customarily, the set screws 124 would not be adjusted to engage the annular groove 122 until the T-conne~tor 126 had been fully engaged wi~h '~he slo' 128.
With reference now particularly to Figs. 6, 7, and 8, the adjustment unit 28 will now be described.
The adjustment unit 28 serves to selectively adjust operation of the piston g2 so that it moves the ball 66 off the seat 40 between any one of a plurality of open positions and the closed position. This con~pt will be explained in detail as the description proceeds. As seen particularly well in Figs. 7 and 8, a threaded shan~ 130 is integral with and ex~ends from a - 13~~~~-1 proxImal end o~ the actuator s~a~t so, that ic,-fro~ an end disl ~nt fr~m th~ piston 92. A~
int~rnAI 1y thr~ A stud 132 is thre~ y engaged with the th~eaded shank 130_ rhe s~ud 13Z
S is alsc extPr~ y threaded, the ext~rnA~ th~eads being coarser than the ~ rnAl threads. A stro~e adjuster nut 134 is thr~ ly rec~ d or. the stud 132 and ic keyE~ h~ ~y~in~r 82 to prevent rotation of said ~ut a~out the longitu~ 1 or ac~uating axis o~ the apparat~us 2C whereby rotation of said stud moves said nut along said axis.
This kay construction will now ~e described. As seen particularly well in Fig. 6, the stroke adjuster nut 134 is forned with four bores 136 which are parallel to a longitu~in~l axis of the cyli~er 82 and equally spaced circ~mferentially af the nut 134. The Cy7 ;n~r 82 is forDled with a threaded bore 138 adapted to receive a threaded stud 140. The axis of the bore l3a is at the same radial distance ~rom the longit~ n~ 1 axis of the cyl;n~- 82 as e~ch of ~he bor2s 136. In any event, the stroke adjuster nut 134 is properly positioned on the stud 132. Then ane of the holes 136 is aligned with the threaded bore 138, whe.~ the stud 140 is received through the bore 136 and thraadedly engaged with the bor~ 138.
In this manner, the nut 134 is held against rotation relative to the cy~ ~ 82, although it has freedom a~ axial movement relative to th~
cylinder 82.
The nu~ 134 is also formed with a radially directed bore 142 which, together with a l~O~
;
compression sprln5 144 and a ball 146 having a - diameter just slightly less than the bare 14Z, operates as- a deten~ in a ~nner which will be described shortly. With the spring 144 and the ball 146 held within the radial bore 142, a crown member 148 is thr~A~ly engaged with the stud 132. The stud extends all the way to the ~ottom of a thre2ded bore 150 of the c_own m~mker 148. A
set ~cre~- 152 is ~hr~ y e--g~ged with a r~; A lly directed bore 154 in the crown m~mher~
then advanced, until it engages the stud 132~
With the set screw 152 thereby engaging the stud 32, the crown member 148 and the stud 132 operate as a unit.
Integral with the crown member 148 is an annular skirt 156 which over~ies the outer surfac~ of the cylinder 82. As seen in Figs. 9 and 10, the inner peripheral surface of the skirt 156 is formed with a plurality of parallel, side-by-side, lonsitt~inAlly ext~ ng ~o~es 158, eac~ groove having approximately the same radius of curvatl~e as the ball 146. Indeed, the ball 146 engages one of the grooves 158 at a time. By reason of the resiliency of the spring 144, the crown member 148 can be rotated about its longitu~i n~ 1 axis, causing the ball 146 to ride over a ridge 160 intermediate adjoining groo~es 158 until it comes to rest in the next groove, and so forth. There is a fixed relatinnch;r bet~een the rotation of the crown member about the actuating axis and movement of the ad~uster nut 134 alcng the actuating axis. ~he apparatus 20 might be l3lloQ~
designed, for ~x~ple, s~ch that the adjuster nut 134 advances toward or retracts fro~ a t~r~in~l surface 162 of the cylin~r 82 at the rate of l/lOOOth of an inch per click, that is, movement of the ball 146 from one groove 158 to its adjoining groove.
ough Figs. 1-5 haYe consi--'ent~y ~_lustrate~
one form and construction of the ~i~phragm 50, it need not ~e so limited but may be of a variety of ch~p~- and constructions. However, in each instance the outer peripheral region of the diaphragm is held fixed while the central region is movable in a direction transverse to a general plane of the diaphragm.
For example, in Fig. ll, a modified diaphra~m 50A
is illustrated having its outer peripheral region 164 firmly held between suita~le retention members 166, 168. While the stem member 60 fixed to a central region 170 of the diaphragm 50~ is free to ~ove in a longit~ t direction, it is su~ject to the degree of elasticity present in the diaphragm in directions transverse to a plane of the diaphragm. Extre~e positions of the ~i~rhragm 50A are illustrated in Fig. 12.
Greater transverse ~ovement can ~e achieved with the constructions illustrated in Figs. 13 and 14.
30 - With respect to Fig. 13, another modified diaphragm 50B has its outer pe_ipheral region 172 fixedly held by retention members 174, 17~ wh i 1 G
its c~r.tral region 178 is fixed to the stem member 13 '~ O ~5~
60. The diaphragm 50B, which is illustrated in Fig. 13 in its relaxed condition, includes a first fold member 180 adjacent the central region 178 and a second fold member 182 adjacent the outer peripheral region 172. The fold members 180 and 182 intersect at an annular apex 184 which is of a living hinge construction. As seen in Fig. 13, the apex 184 lies out of the plane of the central region 178 and outer peripheral region 172 when the diaphragm 50B assumes its solid line position (Fi~. 13). When the stem m~mher 6(!
is moved along its longitudinal axis, it W'll be seen that the diaphragm can take either of the two extreme positions illustrated in Fig. 13 by means of dotted lines. It will be appreciated that the displacement from the norm obtainable with the diaphragm 50B is substantially greater than that obtainable with either the diaphragm 50 or 50A.
A variation on the construction of the diaphragm 50B is illustrated in Fig. 14 in which another modified diaphragm 50C is illustrated. In this instance, the diaphragm has an outer peripheral region 186 which is fixed between suitable retention members 188, 190 and a central region 192 which is fixed to the stem memb-r 60. In this instance, a plurality of concent ic fold members 194, 196 CGoperate with a like plurality of fold members 198, 200. Each adjoining pair of fold members defines an annular apex 202, 204, and 206, respectively, each of which is a living hinge. Upon actuation of the stem member 60, the 13~00S~
-h8-~ h~asm 50C can be moved to the e~LL~2 positions ; n~ ir~ted by dotted lines in Fig. 14 in which all of the fold members are movable toward a generally mutually c~planar relationch; r .
Still another construction is illustrated in Fig.
15 in which an outer cylindr--al re_cntion member 208 wnich ~y ~e a hc~sing itsel~ or an insert within that housing is for~ed with an internal annular slot 210 therein. The slot 210 is capable of receiving and holding an outer peripheral region 212 of another modified diaphragm 5~D whose central region 214 is fixed to the stem m~ber 6~.
Yet another construction is i~lustrated in Fig. 16 in which an outer retainer 216 and a modified diaphragm 50E are integral. The components may be fa~ricated, for exa~ple, of an injection molded plastic material. An outer peripheral region of the ~;~rhragm 50E, in this construction, is integr~l ~ith the retainer 216 but, aga n, it has a central region 218 which is fixed to the stem member 60. As in the previously descri~ed constructions, the ~te2 m~er is movable along its longit~ n~l axis within defined limits depending upon the de~rae of elasticity present in the diaphragm.
OP~ATION
The operation of the modular dispensing apparatus 20 will now be described. The particular fluid to ~e dispensed, which may be, for example, a sealant or adhesive mat~rial in the form of a slurry, or ~ 3 Ll ~
.
~ 19 o~herwise, is i~.LLo~ Dd, under pressure, via inlets 38 and 39 sc as to fill the reservoir 36.
At an a~ Liate tI~e, the actuator unit 26 is operated to- dispense the product fr~m the S dispensing unit 22. Viewin~ FIG. l, this is achieved by introducing pressurized fluid, air for exam~le, via the pc~t lOC tc the upper siae of ~ n 92. This moveC the actuator sha~t 9~
downwardly and, with it, the stem member 50. This causes the diaphragm 50 to move from the position illustrated in FIG. 4 to that illus.rated in FIG.
5 and, simultaneously, moves the ball 66 off the valve seat 40 as respectively seen in those those illustrations. Flow of the fluid product through the nozzle 24 thereupon commences. Subsequently, when it is desired to ter~inate the dispense operation, the foregoing procedure, is reversed in that air is introduced throug~s the port 106 to - the lower side of the piston 92 (Fig. 1) and exhausted through the port 100. In this manner, the ball 66 is returned to the closure surface 41 and the flow of the rluid product ceases.
The downward ~ovement of the piston 92 and of the actuator shaft 90 is against the bias of ~e spring 112~
Furth~rmore, the stroke of the piston 92 is determined by the ~istance between the adjuster nut 134 and the ter~inal surface 162. FIG. 7 illu~trates a positioning of the adjuster nut 134 relative to the terminal surface 162 which will permit only a relati~ely small stroke by the piston and FIG. 8 illustrates such a relative ~ ~ ~ 9 0 5 Ll positioning as will permit a relatively long stroke for the piston.
of course, it is the stroke cf the piston g2, as S permitted by the adjuster nut 134, which det~rrines the extent of the opening of the valve, that is the movement of the ball 66 off the valve se~t 4~. ~he farther off ~ c~t ~ o t~ b2' ' ~o moves, the qreater is the flow rate permitted by the dispensing unit 22 up to the point at which the spacing between the ball and the closure surface 41 is equal to the spacing between the ball and the ch~mher downstream o~ the closure s~rface. The product then flows through the retainer 46, then through the needle member 76 of the nozzle unit 24 and onto a surface intended to receive the prod~ct. When it is intended to ter~inate the -dispensing operation, pressurized alr is introduced to the lower side af the piston 92 via the port 1 0 6 and air on the upper side of the piston ~2 is exhausted through th- port 1~'. The spring 112, which aids in thls operation, serves pri~2rily to close the ~alve in the event no press~rized air is available for the purpose.
It was explained above that an important feature of the dispenser 20 is its ability to provide a controlled suck-~ac~ of the fluid product at the end af a dispensing period. It will be 3~ - appreciatPd that a dispensin~ period may end after laying either one drop or a continuous bead. The duration of opening of the valve is of no co~.se~ence with respect to suc~-bac~. What is or - , ", . . . . ~ , , . . . ," ,.. .
~ impartance is the ability of the disp~n~r to avoid stringin~ and dripping cf the ~luid product wit~ou~ undesirably drawing air into the fluid product within the reserYoir 36. When the ball 66 is moved off the closure surface 41 by a distance substantially equal to the spacing between the ball and ~he 3uter wzli of the chamber into which ~l a~Yances, ~ maximu~ fiow ~2te ~ ha-ve De~n achieved when a constant pressure is applied to the fluid product upstre~m thereof. That is, moving the ball 66 a farther distance away from the closure surface 41 will not thereafter have any effect on the flow rate.
However, this distance has a dlrect effec' on the amount of suc~-bac~ applied to the fluid product upan return of the ball 66 into enqagement with t~e closure surface 41. Upon retraction of the ball 66, a partial vacuum is created downstream therefrom and this suction serves to ~raw the fluid product from the nozzle 24 bac~ toward the reservoir 36. The amount of vaclum thus created is proportional to the distance which the ball 66 moves off the closure s~rface 41. If, for a particular fluid product, the ball is moved too far off .he closure s~rface, air would be drawn into the fluid product and resulting air bubbles within the fluid product would have an undesirable affect on subsequent dispenses. Conversely, if movement of the ball 66 off the closure surface 41 were too small a distanc~, stringing and dripping af the fluid product from the nozzle 24 wculd not ~e prevented. Thus, suck-~ack is a function of the distance the ball 66 travels away fr~m the clc~ure sur~ace 41 and also of the viscosity c~
~he ~luid product since air is mor2 easily drawn into a fluid of low viscosity than one of high viscosity. By adjusting the distanc~ which the ball 66 moves off the closure surface 41, the adjust~2nt un~ servas to ~-on~rol ~ne suc~-~ac~
capability o~ l~he dic~e~sinS apparatus 20, in addi~ion to controlling, in part, the flow through the nozzle, and this can be selected according to the particular fluid product ~eing dispensed.
The apparatus 20 is of a modular design in that it per~its various combinations of actuator units 26, diaphragms, dispensins units 22, and nozzle units 24. The dispenser of the invention is considered sealless because the dis~ensing unit 22 completely lac~s the sliding seals of the type which have heretofore customarily been employed in fluid dispensing apparat~s and which typically fail in their operation when the seals fail. In this instance, the diaphraqm 50 is the sole component utilized to isolate the act~ator unit 26 from the dispensing unit 22. While axial movement is permitted by reason of the deforma~ility of the diaphragm, it is held fixed at both its interior locations and its outer pe~ipheral locations to pre~ent any possibility o~ the product passing ~rom the reservoir 36 into the me~nisr o~ the zctuator unit. Additionally, this const.uction allows quick change of dispenalng uniis without loss of product. Wear and fric-tional losses and loss of produc' are avoided by reason of this construction.
O ~
Another, and pref-rred, e~bodiment of the actuating unit will now be described with reference to Figs. 1~ and 18. In this regard, a modified actuator unit 26A includes an elongated outer sleeve 220 which defines a longit~in~lly ext~in~ bcre 222 eY~ q its full length. A
pair of similar but cppositeiy disposed ' 3uppor_ me~bQrs 22~ ara f t~insl~
rec~ived in the bore 222 at spaced locations.
Each of t~e support ~embers 224 has a longi~in~l1y ext~n~in~ bore 226 which is coaxial with the longitll~;n~l axis of the sleeve 222.
Each support member 224 alsc has a counter~ore 228. The space defined by the counterbore 228 in the lower suppart member 224 (Fig. 17) serves to receive a modified compression spring 112A
which operates in substantially the same manner as the spring 112. A modified act~ator shaft gOA is slidingly received in the bores 226 of the su~port r?mh~rs 224 and is integr~i wi~ G modified piston 92A which is disposed within the bore 222. As in the pre~ious embodiment, the piston 92A, and with it the actuator shaft 90A, is reciprocable along an actuating axis which is the longittl~in~l axis of the outer sleeve 220. In the same fashion, the piston 92A may be fluid operated, preferably pneu~atic, and 0-ring seals 230 and 232, respecti~ely, encircle the actuator shaft 9~A and the support member 224 at locations spaced in opposite directions from the piston 92A. The piston 92A itself is also provided with a suitable 0-rins seal ~8 as in the prev~ous emD~diment.
7 .5 '~
In this embo~ t, Ln order to m~ve the piston 92A downwardly (Fig. 17), pressurized actuating ~luid is i~ o~uced to cooperating ports 234, 236, respectively, in the outer sleeve 220 and in S upper support member 224. Downward movement of the piston 92A causes actuating fluid to eYhaust via ports 23~ 0, r~spect~vely, i.. ~e lower ~-~pp-~ ~2~er 224 and in the outer ~ ~'v'~ 220.
As in the instance of the prior em~odiment, downward movement of the piston 92A is accomplished against the bias cf the spring 112A.
According to this embodiment, a modified dispensing unit 22A is also provided. In this instance, a modified end member 32A has a dep~; ng annular skirt 242 whlch is mechanically crimped onto a suitable annular surface 244 at an upper end of a modified cylindrical housing 30A.
The outer peripheral regions 52 of the diaphrasm 50 are there~y firmly fixed bet-~een the end member 32A and the h~using 3aA. A pair of ret~ r rings 246 preven~ longit~ Al movement of the support members 224 toward the ends of the sleeve 220 and, at the -lower end thereof, define a reception cavity 248 (Fig. 18) for fitting reception of the end member 32A. When a pair of mating apertures 250 and 252 in the end member 32A and sleeve 220 - are appropriately aligned, a suita~le loc~ins r~~h~r 2S4 which may utilize, for example, a ball and detent loc~ing me~h~n;sm, is then inserted through the apertures to releasably m~unt the ~ispensing unit 22A onto the ac_~ator uni~ 26~.
.. .~. ., i, ~ " , . .. .
. .
13~05'i A primary feature a~ this madified c~ L~ction is the fact that the ports 234, 236,238,240 for the actuating fluid are completely within the actuator unit 26A and are not related in any way to the ~iC~ ing unit 22A. As a result, the dispensing unit 22A may be de~h~d from or attached to the actuator ~n't 25.~ cu' '~he n~CFcsi2y of first di~connecting the actuator unit from the source of actuating fluid. rn~e~ the s~urce of actuating fluid may remain connected to the actuator unit regardless of whether the dispensing unit 22A is mounted therecn.
~hile it is ac~nowledged that there are other dvnamic seals in the apparatus 20, for example, o-ring seals 94, 96, 98, and 116, these are seals within the actuator unit 26 and not directly involved with, or concerned with, the product being dispensed. The 0-ring seal 74 is associated with the nozz~e unit ~-~ ana, _herefore, also not directly with the dispensin~ unit 22. In any event, its condition is easily observable and it can be readily removed along with the nozzle unit and replaced if it b~c~res defective.
Furthermore, it is not a dynamic, or sliding type seal, which is the type of seal with which the invention is concerned and serves to replace.
Claims (23)
1. Apparatus for dispensing precise quantities of a fluid product comprising:
(a) a housing defining a reservoir for containing the fluid product under pressure;
(b) a valve seat on said housing defining an outlet for dispensing the fluid product from said reservoir;
(c) valve means movable along an actuating axis between an open position from said valve seat for dispensing the fluid product from said reservoir and a closed position in contact engagement with said valve seat for stopping the dispensing of the fluid product from said reservoir, said valve means having a spherical face facing said valve seat;
(d) actuator means comprising an operative mechanism for instantaneously moving said valve means along said actuating axis between said open and closed positions;
(e) a valve stem, contiguous with said valve means and said actuator means, whose axis is coincident with said actuating axis and which is movable along said actuating axis for transferring the movement of said operative mechanism to said valve means; and (f) a deformable diaphragm intermediate said actuator means and said housing forsealingly isolating the fluid product in said reservoir from said operative mechanism.
(a) a housing defining a reservoir for containing the fluid product under pressure;
(b) a valve seat on said housing defining an outlet for dispensing the fluid product from said reservoir;
(c) valve means movable along an actuating axis between an open position from said valve seat for dispensing the fluid product from said reservoir and a closed position in contact engagement with said valve seat for stopping the dispensing of the fluid product from said reservoir, said valve means having a spherical face facing said valve seat;
(d) actuator means comprising an operative mechanism for instantaneously moving said valve means along said actuating axis between said open and closed positions;
(e) a valve stem, contiguous with said valve means and said actuator means, whose axis is coincident with said actuating axis and which is movable along said actuating axis for transferring the movement of said operative mechanism to said valve means; and (f) a deformable diaphragm intermediate said actuator means and said housing forsealingly isolating the fluid product in said reservoir from said operative mechanism.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein at least one of said valve seat and said valve means is composed of a material compatible with the fluid product to be dispensed.
3. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the compatible material is selected from the group consisting of nylon, ultra high molecular weight polyethylene, polyester and fluorinated hydrocarbon polymer.
4. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the compatible material is a fluorinated hydrocarbon polymer.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said valve means comprises a check ball.
6. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein at least one of said valve seat and said check ball is comprises of a material compatible with the fluid product to be dispensed selected from the group consisting of nylon, ultra high molecular weight polyethylene, polyester and fluorinated hydrocarbon polymer.
7. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein the compatible material is a fluorinated hydrocarbon polymer.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said valve seat is a conical shaped closuresurface.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein the valve means comprises a check ball.
10. The apparatus of claim 9 wherein at least one of said conical shaped closuresurface and said check ball is composed of a material compatible with the fluid product to be dispensed.
11. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein the compatible material is selected from the group consisting of nylon, ultra high molecular weight polyethylene, polyester and fluorinated hydrocarbon polymer.
12. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein the compatible material is a fluorinated hydrocarbon polymer.
13. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a derformable diaphragm intermediate said actuator means and said housing for sealingly isolating the fluid product in said reservoir from said operative mechanism.
14. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the deformable diaphragm extends transversely of said actuating axis and is sealingly fixed at spaced regions to said housing and to said valve stem.
15. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein said valve means comprises a check ball.
16. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein the valve seat is a conical shaped closuresurface.
17. The apparatus of claim 15 wherein the valve seat is a conical shaped closuresurface.
18. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein said diaphragm and at least one of said valve means and said valve seat is each composed of a material which is compatible with the fluid product to be dispensed and is selected from the group consisting of nylon, ultra high molecular weight polyethylene and fluorinated hydrocarbon polymer.
19. The apparatus of claim 18 wherein at least one of said valve means and said valve seat is composed of a fluorinated hydrocarbon polymer.
20. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the actuator means comprises a housing defining a piston cavity, said piston cavity having a longitudinal axis which is coaxial with the actuating axis, a piston means disposed within and dividing said piston cavity and a pair of inlets, one above the piston and one below the piston, regardless of the orientation of the piston within the piston cavity, said inlet means allowing for the instantaneous and simultaneous introduction and expulsion of a fluid under pressure from opposite sides of the piston so as to cause the instantaneous reciprocating of the piston within the piston cavity.
21. The apparatus of claim 20 wherein the pressurized fluid is air.
22. The apparatus of claim 20 wherein the piston is disposed on a piston shaft, the axis of which is coincident with said actuating axis, said piston shaft being contiguous with the valve stem.
23. The apparatus of claim 20 wherein the valve seat comprises a conical shapedclosure surface and the valve means comprises a check ball.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000617024A CA1340054C (en) | 1988-04-04 | 1995-09-26 | Sealless modular dispenser |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US176,877 | 1988-04-04 | ||
| US07/176,877 US4930669A (en) | 1987-06-03 | 1988-04-04 | Sealless modular dispenser |
| CA000595103A CA1338267C (en) | 1988-04-04 | 1989-03-29 | Sealless modular dispenser |
| CA000617024A CA1340054C (en) | 1988-04-04 | 1995-09-26 | Sealless modular dispenser |
Related Parent Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000595103A Division CA1338267C (en) | 1988-04-04 | 1989-03-29 | Sealless modular dispenser |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1340054C true CA1340054C (en) | 1998-09-22 |
Family
ID=25672567
Family Applications (2)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000617023A Expired - Fee Related CA1339120C (en) | 1988-04-04 | 1995-09-26 | Sealless modular dispenser |
| CA000617024A Expired - Fee Related CA1340054C (en) | 1988-04-04 | 1995-09-26 | Sealless modular dispenser |
Family Applications Before (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000617023A Expired - Fee Related CA1339120C (en) | 1988-04-04 | 1995-09-26 | Sealless modular dispenser |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (2) | CA1339120C (en) |
-
1995
- 1995-09-26 CA CA000617023A patent/CA1339120C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1995-09-26 CA CA000617024A patent/CA1340054C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA1339120C (en) | 1997-07-29 |
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| MKLA | Lapsed |