Abstract: A system for dispensing controlled amounts of flowable materials having a wide range of viscosities, such as food condiments, from a flexible-walled container or bag includes a second container for holding the flexible-walled container and a piston positioned within the second container to apply pressure to a wall of the flexible-walled container. An enfitment, which has a piercing member and sealing mechanism, is positioned adjacent an opposite wall of the flexible-walled container. By rotating the enfitment about a rotational axis generally normal to the wall of the first container, the enfitment forms an opening in the flexible-walled container and a seal with the container. The flowable material can then be forced through a hollow tube of the enfitment and an exit nozzle coupled to the enfitment.

Abstract: A system for dispensing liquids, particularly a system for dispensing liquid soap through at least one hand-operated pump. The system includes a pump, a main reservoir for holding a first quantity of the fluid to be dispensed, and an auxiliary reservoir for holding a second and generally smaller quantity of fluid. The main reservoir, auxiliary reservoir, and pump are in fluid communication with one another through a coupling. The system and coupling are configured so that the fluid is drawn preferentially from the main reservoir, with fluid being drawn from the auxiliary reservoir only when the main reservoir is substantially emptied of fluid. Additionally, any fluid that is drawn from the auxiliary reservoir will be replenished automatically by fluid in the main reservoir as long as any fluid is present in the main reservoir.

Abstract: A system for the preservation, transportation and dispensing of dyes provides for a combination of a hollow reservoir having at least one deformable wall so that its internal volume can vary from a maximum to a minimum substantially close to zero, and an opening for the connection of the reservoir to a dye-dispensing circuit; the reservoir is airtight so that its internal volume corresponds to the volume of dye contained therein in essentially any condition of use.

Abstract: A fitment for a flexible container and method of using the same, especially suitable for use with a dispensing system having a peristaltic pump. The fitment having a generally cylindrical base assembly and an outlet port for providing access to the contents of the container, and a spout body dimensioned to attach to the base assembly to form a fluid flow path between the base assembly and spout body. A cap and barrier material may also be provided to seal the outlet port of the container and protect against contamination.

Abstract: A flexible tube and pump dispenser for lotions and the like including a flexible plastic tube having a first end and a second end. The tube includes an integral rigid finish at one end which has a radial flange and a radially inwardly extending wall. The flange has an opening therethrough. A pump dispenser having a plunger and an axial body extends through the opening in the sealing flange of the finish. The axial body of the pump dispenser has a flange engaging the flange of the finish. The flange on the body is held in position engaging the wall on the finish.

Abstract: A method and an extractor for pressing out plasma and buffy coat from a collapsible blood container (1), in which blood has been divided, by centrifugation, into a plasma layer, a buffy coat layer and a layer of red blood cells. The plasma and then the buffy coat are pressed out each through a separate outlet tube (2) or through a common outlet tube (2), which is connected to the top portion of the blood container, a pulsating pressure being applied to a top section of the blood container (1) during the end phase of the pressing-out of buffy coat. The extractor has a stationary support surface (6) and a movable pressing member (7), between which the blood container is suspended and subjected to a compressive force in order to press out the plasma and then the buffy coat through the outlet tube (2).

Abstract: A dispensing device is adapted to dispense metered amounts of a liquid substance from a pouch (10) made from a pair of superposed flexible sheets. The pouch defines a liquid containing chamber (15-17) and a narrow liquid discharge passage (18) communicating with the chamber at a junction position (34) and being self-sealing at that position. The device comprises liquid discharge mechanism (23, 27) for applying a pressure to the liquid substance present in the lower part of the chamber (16). The liquid discharge mechanism comprises a devices (31) for applying an inwardly directed pressure to a pouch wall closely adjacent to the junction position (34) so as to increase the angle (62) defined between the pouch wall and the plane at right angles to the longitudinal axis (13) of the discharge passage (18), whereby the discharge passage (18) may be opened.

Abstract: A receptacle receives and at least partially contains a container that contains fluid. The receptacle, or the receptacle in combination with the container, defines an inflation device. The inflation device is associated with the container so that when the inflation device is inflated the fluid is forced from the container. Subsequent to the proper positioning of the container relative to a human cavity, the inflation device is inflated by operating an activation device such as a switch or a valve. The activation device is preferably distant from the container and receptacle such that the activation device can be easily accessed and operated. Alternatively a spring is associated with the receptacle. The spring is compressed and a retention device operates to maintain the spring in the compressed configuration. Once the container and receptacle are properly positioned relative to a cavity, the retention device is acted upon to release the spring.

Abstract: A bag accommodated in an outer box of a bag-in-box is made of film-like material to be collapsible to push out the contents such as beverage syrups and liquid foods and comprises a bag body and a mouthpiece provided on the bag body for passing the contents therethrough. The bag body is made of polyester resin at a thickness of 20-150 .mu.m.

Abstract: A flexible tube and pump dispenser for lotions and the like including a flexible plastic tube having a first end and a second end. The tube includes an integral rigid finish at one end which has a radial flange and a radially inwardly extending wall. The flange has an opening therethrough. A pump dispenser having a plunger and an axial body extends through the opening in the sealing flange of the finish. The axial body of the pump dispenser has a flange engaging the flange of the finish. The flange on the body is held in position engaging the wall on the finish.

Abstract: The volume (12) between the deformable container (1) containing the product and the rigid outer container (2) receives outside air, at least when the pump (15) is actuated, via orifices (18, 20) made in the pump body (13) and the neck (17) of the deformable container (1) and via grooves (21) for the passage of air into the neck (16) of the outer container (2). Confinements mechanisms, such as a cap (3) mounted in a leaktight manner on the device, or a seal (4) forming a non-return valve against the orifice (18) for air intake, or, alternatively, a special stop limiting the displacement of the piston (6) of the pump (15), prevent the leakage towards the outside, via the reverse path, of vapors and/or gases which have migrated from the inside of the container (1) into the volume (12) between the containers (1, 2), when the pump (15) is not actuated.

Abstract: An engine assembly 10 includes an inner housing 12 containing an engine in an outer housing 14 disposed about the inner housing 12 and defining a sealed chamber 16 therebetween. A fuel storage bladder 20 disposed within the chamber 16 in fluid communication with the engine through the inner housing 12. The bladder 20 includes a first wall 24 and a second wall 26 and a peripheral seam for perfecting a peripheral fuel-tight seam interconnecting the first and second walls 24, 26. The walls 24, 26 are flexible for bowing away from each other to contain fuel therebetween and lie against each other upon the application of fluid pressure from a pressure source 18. Each of the walls 24, 26 have an inner surface 28, 30 facing the inner surface of the other of the walls, the inner surfaces 28, 30 having an equal surface area whereby the inner surfaces 28, 30 completely engage each other when the bladder 20 is emptied of fuel.

Abstract: An apparatus for squeezing fluid out of the neck of a collapsible tube installed therein, including a base frame, a L-shaped supporting frame moved in the base frame in the longitudinal direction, an actuating plate pivotably connected to the back side of the vertical portion of the L-shaped supporting frame and having a push rod inserted through a hole on the L-shaped supporting frame, a cover board pivoted to the front side of the vertical portion of the L-shaped supporting frame, and a push plate suspending below the board and coupled to the actuating plate, wherein the push rod of the actuating plate is forced to push the cover board away from the neck of the collapsible tube and the L-shaped supporting frame is simultaneously moved toward the rollers to squeeze the collapsible tube when the push plate is depressed, thereby causing fluid to be forced out of the collapsible tube.

Abstract: A dispenser comprises a collapsible bottle and a valve assembly for placement in the throat of the bottle which includes a first hollow valve member sealed in the throat of the bottle and a hollow second valve member having apertures in the side wall. The second valve member telescopes in the first valve member between a closed position in which the apertures are located within the channel of the first valve member to close the bottle and an open position in which the apertures are in flow communication with the interior of the bottle. The first and second valve members are dimensioned to receive a probe forming part of a dispenser pump mechanism. The bottle is provided with crease lines located on the front, back and sides so that the bottle collapses as liquid is pumped out of the bottle to prevent exposure of the liquid contents to air.

Abstract: A device for pumping controlled amounts of flowable materials having a wide range of viscosities, such as condiments for food, from a bag having flexible walls. The device is comprised of a container to hold the flexible bag, a piston to drive a controlled motion mechanism to compress the bag, a sealing mechanism to seal the bag to constrain flow through a wide range of nozzles, a cutting device to pierce the bag when a seal has been obtained, an exit nozzle(s) to discharge the fluid and to maintain the temperature of the exit nozzle(s). Multiple connections may be made to multiple dispensing points. Dispensing of exact quantities of the flowable material is accomplished by controlling the position of the piston by a stepping servomechanism to displace an exact volume of the flowable material at the exit nozzle. Nozzle temperature is equalized to that of the material in the container by provision of air passages through the nozzle.

Abstract: A combination chemical dispensing apparatus and dispensing gun. The apparatus includes a first master container having at least one flexible wall product container and a head space between the product container and the first master container, a gas-generating apparatus including a second master container receiving a first fluent substance and a second fluent substance in a second container and a product dispensing gun including valves for controlling liquid and gas flow therethrough, with fluid-tight connections arranged to permit fluid flow from the product container to the gun and gas flow from the second master container to the first master container and to the gun.

Abstract: A constant pressure device for use with administration sets for infusing liquids into patients. The device includes a housing adapted to receive a container for holding and discharging liquid into the body of a patient. The constant pressure can be pre-set to a desired pressure according to the requirements of a particular circumstance. The device maintains constant pressure independent of gravity, relative pressure head height, or fluid viscosity. The device has a housing in which a collapsible container is inserted. The constant pressure device has a drive which exerts a predetermined pressure on the container thereby dispensing a predetermined amount of liquid. The device also has an energy storing mechanism located within the housing which is linked to a gearing assembly to control the drive. The device has a pressure-responsive mechanism to deactivate the drive when the pressure becomes too great.

Abstract: A frozen dessert dispensing apparatus is comprised of a housing that receives at least one collapsible container for a frozen dessert wherein the collapsible container is provided with at least one opening for dispensing frozen dessert therefrom. A dispensing valve assembly is in flow communication with the at least one opening. Air pressure is utilized to collapse the collapsible container in response to the operation of the dispensing valve. The housing is provided with a door which is utilized for placing the collapsible containers in the housing as well for removal of the collapsed container from the apparatus. A safety device is provided so that collapsible containers cannot be removed from the apparatus until the air pressure on the collapsible container is vented.

Abstract: A toothpaste dispensing apparatus which is designed to enclose a disposable toothpaste tube and sequentially dispense toothpaste from the tube spout by operation of a pair of spring-loaded rollers. The apparatus includes a container having a pair of longitudinal slots, a removable cap and a toothpaste dispensing valve in the cap for registering with the threaded toothpaste tube spout and dispensing toothpaste from the tube spout on demand. A pair of rollers is disposed in the apparatus and the rollers are attached to oppositely-disposed, spring-loaded roller tabs at the container slots, wherein the rollers seat on opposite sides of the toothpaste tube inserted in the apparatus and are biased upwardly against the toothpaste tube by the springs. The springs are sufficiently strong to exert constant pressure on the toothpaste tube and the encapsulated toothpaste and facilitate dispensing of a controlled quantity of toothpaste from the tube spout upon manipulation of the toothpaste dispensing valve.

Abstract: A dispensing apparatus for automatically dispensing the paste-like content of a collapsible tube. The apparatus includes a housing having an outer door and an inner door hinged at the bottom to close a bottom opening and two pairs of vertical racks. A collapsible paste tube, installed inside the housing to hold a paste-like content. A dispensing unit consisting of two rollers, moved along the vertical racks to squeeze a fixed amount of the paste-like content out of the collapsible paste tube. A transmission gear unit driven to turn the rollers causes them to be moved along the vertical racks, and an induction type actuator controlled to detect the presence of a pick-up device for picking up the dispensed paste-like content from the collapsible paste tube by an electric eye and to turn the dispensing unit through the transmission gear unit by a first motor and to open the outer door by a second motor upon the detection of the presence of the pick-up device.

Abstract: A viscous material dispenser (for liquid soap and the like) comprises a plunger with a roller connected to a flexible arm and a reservoir in fluid communication with a nozzle retained in a nozzle housing. Depressing the plunger pinches the nozzle closed between the roller and the nozzle housing and bends the flexible arm as the roller progresses along the length of the nozzle in the nozzle housing. Depressing the plunger also opens the nozzle exiting from the bottom of the reservoir. In one embodiment the reservoir is in fluid communication with an air chamber. Depressing the plunger increases the pressure in the air chamber and this pressurized air is conducted through a duct into the reservoir. The duct terminates in a portion which turns back on the remainder of the duct and this portion incorporates a one-way non-return valve so that pressure in the reservoir may be built up with consecutive strokes of the plunger due to the non-return valve.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for dispensing frozen confections, such as ice cream and yogurts. A collapsible container is adapted to contain the frozen confection and is provided with an outlet of sufficient size to permit extrusion of frozen confection into an outlet dispensing conduit. A compressive force that may be applied by a piston causes the extrusion of frozen confection from the collapsible container into the outlet conduit. A receptacle is provided for the collapsible container wherein the receptacle is so designed that upon collapsing the collapsible container the collapsible container does not collapse into or otherwise plug or interfere with the flow of soft confection through the collapsible container outlet.

Abstract: A dispenser for squeezing a collapsible tube including a housing with a reciprocating wall where the wall has a tooth gear for engaging and moving a mechanical follower along a collapsible tube to dispense paste each time the reciprocating wall is reciprocated. A closure is opened and closed with each reciprocation of the reciprocating wall to dispense the paste.

Abstract: A fluid dispenser comprising a pump (10) having no air intake and mounted in sealed manner on a deformable tank (20), and an outer envelope (30) that surrounds the deformable tank (20) and that retains a shape suitable for being held in the hand throughout the time that the dispenser is in use, the outer envelope (30) defining an inner volume that communicates with the atmosphere via at least one air passage (34, 35, 36), the deformable tank being a flexible tube (20) that extends between a first end (20a) that is closed by pinching to form a bottom (33, 33b) and a second end (20b) that is secured to the pump (10), characterized in that the outer envelope is a flexible tube extending between a first end (30a) close to the bottom (33, 33b) of the tank, and a second end (30b) in mechanical connection with the second end of the deformable tank (20), the first end (30a) of the outer envelope being closed by pinching.

Abstract: An ink jet cartridge is composed integrally of a recording head and an ink tank, which are constructed in mutually separable manner, in order to enable repeated use of the recording head by replacement of the ink tank. In an ink supply part in the ink tank, an elastic partition wall is provided with a slit which is normally closed but is opened under a predetermined pressure difference. The slit is so designed as to generate an appropriate negative pressure on the recording head, thereby preventing ink leakage. Also a slit shielding valve member is provided to shield the slit at the abrupt inhaling action of the ink tank at the detaching of the ink tank, in order to prevent air intrusion into the ink tank.

Abstract: A wall mountable cream tube dispenser for dispensing cream is disclosed. The dispenser includes a wall mount having a slot and a movable locking lever with a tongue, and includes a separate dispenser mechanism provided with a guide plate having a groove. The lever is elongated and has a proximal end attached to the wall mount and a distal end spaced therefrom. The tongue is positioned between the proximal end and the distal end of the lever. The wall mount is mounted on a wall or other supporting surface and the guide plate is inserted into the slot whereupon the tongue is received into the groove to form a tongue-in-groove connection. The tongue-in-groove connection is decoupled by pressing on the free end of the lever thereby deforming the lever and pulling the tongue from the groove. Various types of cream tubes may be attached to the dispenser mechanism, including toothpaste, hand and face creams, hair gel and the like.

Abstract: A dispenser is provided for dispensing the extrudable contents of a collapsible container having a nozzle through which the container can be discharged by collapsing the container. The dispenser is of a piston/cylinder device, with the piston having a container-engaging face provided with a contoured structure of a predetermined configuration corresponding generally to a collapsing profile of the collapsible container. An elongated flexible valve device is slidably mounted relative to the housing and includes a coupling end coupled directly to a trigger member of the dispenser and a valve end for opening and closing an opening in the housing which defines the cylinder of the device. The flexible valve device is a band member of plastic material and is operatively associated with a mechanism for holding the valve open when a cover of the housing is removed and for automatically closing the valve when the cover is replaced.

Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing on demand a predetermined amount of a past like material from a compressible tube like container. The dispenser is characterized in that it supports the tube for access by a user, the dispenser having a movable cover normally closing the aperture, the dispenser exerting force on the tube to cause controlled dispensing of paste when the aperture is uncovering until a substantial portion of the tube is emptied, the housing means to use external force to dispense the balance of the paste in a controlled manner.

Abstract: A liquid dispensing system providing a housing holding a liquid filled pouch inside, the housing pivotably supporting an actuating arm which is thrust against the pouch by a push button extending outside the housing, the actuating arm having an actuator to compress an upper section of a tubular peristaltic pump section of the pouch for squeezing out an incremental amount of liquid. The tubular peristaltic pumping section provides V-shaped notches arranged on lateral sides of the top section and the bottom section for ease of closure by flattening and other advantages. A check valve having lever arms to resiliently stretch flat a discharge nozzle section at the lower end of the peristaltic pumping tube prevents dripping during non-use. A check valve actuator is provided on the actuating arm to engage with the check valve lever arms to open the discharge nozzle during actuation and a short time thereafter to create a suck-back to remove any drips.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved toothpaste dispensing apparatus which includes a housing having a grasping assembly for holding the toothpaste container, a guide and brace assembly for supporting the toothpaste container and a nozzle assembly including a capping mechanism for dispensing the toothpaste. A drive assembly is mounted within the housing and drives a carriage assembly for squeezing the toothpaste container. A control system is also included for activating the drive assembly and for automatic reversal of the drive assembly.

Abstract: A liquid separator of the present invention comprises a first plate member, a second plate member forming a receiving portion between it and the first plate member for receiving a flexible liquid container including liquid separated into the upper liquid layer and the lower liquid layer, and pushing means for pushing the second plate member toward the first plate member, said pushing means automatically pushing the second plate member with gradually decreasing pressure after starting the discharge of the upper liquid layer from the flexible liquid container. Therefore, the upper liquid layer can be discharged from the flexible liquid container without disturbing the boundary between the upper and lower liquid layers in the flexible liquid container. Thus, the upper liquid layer can automatically and efficiently be taken out from the flexible liquid container without mixing with the lower liquid layer and without any complicated and troublesome manipulation.

Abstract: A solution separating apparatus has a container holding portion, a container pressurizing portion, an interface detecting portion, and a control unit. The interface detecting portion comprises a light emitting apparatus disposed to one side and a light receiving apparatus disposed to another side with a container held by the container holding portion sandwiched therebetween. The light emitting element comprises a plurality (three or more) of light emitting elements disposed in parallel in the substantially moving direction of the interface within the container. Another solution separating apparatus embodiment has a container holding portion, a tube clamper, a container pressurizing portion, a control unit, and a weight measuring portion commonly used by two or more container holding portions. The weight measuring portion selectively measures the quantity of weight change of each container held by the container holding portions.

Abstract: A viscous material dispenser (for liquid soap and the like) comprises a piston in fluid communication with an air chamber. Depressing the piston increases the pressure in the air chamber and this pressurized air is conducted through a duct to a reservoir. Depressing the piston also opens a nozzle leading from the bottom of the reservoir. In one embodiment the duct terminates in a portion which turns back on the remainder of the duct which portion incorporates a one-way non-return valve so that the pressure in the reservoir may be built up with consecutive strokes of the piston due to the non-return valve. When air is pumped through the duct, a bubble of air is trapped between the valve and the mouth of the duct which prevents fouling of the valve by the viscous material.

Abstract: A blood separator having: a blood bag pressurizing section for retaining a centrifuged blood bag and pressurizing the same at a predetermined pressure; a retention/measurement section for retaining at least two separation bags connecting with the blood bag via tubes and capable of receiving separated blood components, and measuring the weight of the separation bags; limiting devices provided at intermediate portions of the tubes between the blood bag and the separation bags to limit the flows of liquids in the tubes; a detector for detecting the level of an interface between components of blood in the blood bag retained in the blood bag pressurizing section; a moving device for moving the detector relative to the blood bag; and a controller for controlling the limiting devices while receiving, as an item of control information, detection information from the detector and/or measurement information from the retention/measurement section.

Abstract: A beverage dispensing system and distributing process with such a system has a flexible bag 1 containing the beverage which may have carbon dioxide dissolved therein. The beverage is drawn off through a pipe 3 (assisted by a pump 8) for dispensing through nozzle 5 having a tap 6. Carbon dioxide, nitrogen (or other inert gas) and/or air gases are introduced into the beverage through a passage 11 by way of a fixed orifice restrictor 12 and a non-return valve 13. The pressure of the gas which is introduced is adjustable at 14 and baffles 15 can provide turbulence in the beverage during dispensing to promote the dissolution of the introduced gas therein.The facility to introduce the gas or gases permits the beverage in the bag 1 to have a low content of carbon dioxide so that the bag collapses under atmospheric pressure while the beverage as dispensed is additionally gasified for the formation of a froth or head.

Abstract: The invention apparatus comprises a duct that supplies balls to a lateral outlet tube. The outlet tube feeds laterally to a sealant applicator nozzle. An impact plunger pushes the balls successively into sealant in the applicator nozzle. The nozzle extrudes sealant containing balls as spacers, useful in bonding two flat elements, spaced apart by the balls.

Abstract: A liquid separator for use as a blood component separator separates a blood component such as blood plasma from centrifugally separated component layers in a flexible blood bag. The blood bag has a liquid discharge tube on its upper end. The liquid separator includes a container holder for holding the blood bag with the liquid discharge tube directed substantially upwardly, and a container presser for pressing the blood bag progressively from the upper end toward a lower end thereof in coaction with the container holder to force the blood component out of the blood bag through the liquid discharge tube. While the blood bag is pressed, a certain thickness is provided at its upper end to allow the blood component to flow out of the blood back through the blood discharge tube.

Abstract: The instant invention, is directed to a liquid dispensing system, especially for soap. The system comprises a housing, and a flexible pouch for storing liquid which is held within the housing and which has a discharge nozzle. A mechanism for pumping the liquid from the pouch is operatively associated with the housing. A valve mechanism for checking the flow of the liquid from the pouch includes a mechanism for laterally tensioning the pouch proximate its discharge nozzle so that the tension created is greater than a static pressure head of the liquid in the pouch but less than the dynamic pressure head created by the pumping mechanism.

Abstract: The object of the invention is a combination of a portioning system and a flexible tube to contain and distribute a paste product or a cream. By pressing on the flexible tube, the system can be completely filled. Exact portions of the product can be obtained and the product is not exposed to the air, does not dry out and is not contaminated.

Abstract: A dispenser is provided for dispensing unit doses of a substance, such as tablets, pastes and the like having a tubular casing with a discharge opening at one end and a pressure bottom at the other end for the displacement of the discharge substance in the direction of the discharge opening, the pressure bottom being moved step by step in the direction of the discharge opening by the action of an operating handle positioned near the discharge opening and of at least one transport rack, the pressure bottom being blocked against backwards movement by at least one support rack located at the inner wall of the tubular casing, the transport rack and the support rack being mounted on an insert piece of the tube casing.

Abstract: A disposable razor includes a handle having a compartment for containing a limited amount of shaving cream/gel, with the amount of the shaving cream/gel predetermined to be quantitatively the appropriate amount usable during the relatively short life of the disposable razor. The handle includes provisions for inserting and removing a container for the cream or gel in one embodiment and other embodiments disclose different elements for dispensing the cream or gel from the container through the bottom of the handle.

Abstract: A disposable tint pack assembly is provided for use in a contact lens tinting apparatus. This disposable assembly includes a plurality of disposable packages, each for containing a supply of a given fluid material for use in a contact lens tinting process carried out by the apparatus. A fluid dispensing apparatus is coupled with each of these packages and is selectively operable for dispensing the fluid contained therein, preferably in premeasured, incremental quantities. A tray-like carrier member is provided for supporting and locating all of the packages in predetermined relative positions for use in a given order in the lens tinting process carried out by the tinting apparatus. A retaining structure is provided for releasably holding each of the packages in the desired position in the carrier tray. The invention also extends to individual portions or sub-assemblies of the foregoing tint pack assembly.

Abstract: A toothpaste dispenser incorporates a toothed rack 6, pinion 8 mounted on a carriage having an arm for mounting a toothpaste tube 2, and a closure member 29 to close an outlet 0 of the toothpaste tube pivotally moveable against a bias on insertion of a brush into the apparatus for actuation of the pinion along the rack via a crank lever 33 and a ratchet wheel 17. The tube is driven by the carriage through a pair of squeeze rollers to dispense the toothpaste.

Abstract: A syringe for use with collapsible ampoules pre-filled with a liquid medicament includes a body that forms an open receptacle for the ampoule and a handle attached by a hinge to one end of the body so as to be in opposed relationship with the ampoule. The handle carries a compression pad on its underside, so that the handle can be squeezed toward the body to compress the ampoule. The body has a fitting at its proximal end for the attachment of a double-ended disposable needle. When the needle is attached to the fitting, the distal end of the needle passes through the fitting and punctures the ampoule, allowing the contents of the ampoule to flow into the needle as the ampoule is compressed. In one embodiment, the handle is hinged to the proximal end of the body; in a second embodiment, it is hinged to the distal end. In both embodiments, the pad is maintained in substantially parallel alignment with the longitudinal axis of the body.

Abstract: A periodontal pocket irrigating and treatment system includes a dispenser capable of containing a medication. The system enables an individual patient to self-administer a medication or irrigant into periodontal pockets while at home or travelling. A housing holds a tube of medication, and a roller squeezes the tube, thereby releasing an incremental portion of the medication therefrom. A control, operable from the outside of the housing, urges the roller in increments along the interior of the housing, squeezing the tube in a controlled fashion. A nozzle is attached to the tube for delivering the medication from the tube through a nozzle outlet end of small diameter to the periodontal pocket. Optionally, a flexible tip is attached to end of nozzle for elimination of pain and for guidance around curvatures of the periodontal pocket. A ratchet preferably controls the amount of medication dispensed by the device.

Abstract: A liquid dispenser and collapsible bag, the bag preferably having a self-sealing valve inherently formed from the sides of the bag, the bag being equipped with clips to engage clip receiving structure on the dispenser. The dispenser having a frame, with a bag support structure, a pump structure, and a clip receiving structure to engage the bag clips for the opening and closing of the valve.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for spray application of a burn treating agent is disclosed. The apparatus delivers substantially all of the treating agent from a flexible source thereof through a spray nozzle, preferably without bringing the agent into contact with ambient air or contaminants. In a preferred embodiment, silver sulfadiazine cream is sprayed on a burn wound by urging the cream toward an outlet in a collapsible bag in which the cream is disposed by means of pressure applied to the exterior surface of the bag and conveying the cream from the outlet to a sanitary spray nozzle by means of a compressed air operated sanitary pump.

Abstract: A dispenser apparatus for dispensing a portion of the contents from compressible tubular containers such as those used for toothpaste includes a plastic housing member having one portion designed for the receipt of an air pressure pump and associated linkage, and a second outward portion in communication with the air pressure pump but otherwise sealed, and a front panel portion hinged to the remainder of the housing for selectively opening and closing the second outward portion so as to define a sealed chamber. A tubular container such as a toothpaste tube is placed in the sealed chamber and the side walls of the tube are compressed by the introduction of air pressure into the sealed chamber. The bottom surface or wall of the housing includes an internally threaded outlet which is rigidly secured to the housing and which is suitably designed to receive the threaded end of the tubular container such that when one tube is empty, it may be unscrewed and a new tube screwed into this outlet.

Abstract: A tube of toothpaste is provided with an internal balloon or similar elastically expansable chamber near its far end, from which a slender inflation tube extends axially out of the neck and is communicated to the exterior of a cap. The cap includes a lateral projection provided with a push to close/pull to open captive closure-type valve. A valved source of compressed gas is communicated to the inflation tube. An actuator is linked both to the cap valve and to the compressed gas valve, so that as the cap valve is opened to dispense toothpaste, the compressed gas valve may be opened to pressurize and inflate the balloon within the tube. Thus the toothpaste reservoir is pressurized for dispensing. The compressed gas line to the inflation tube is provided with a safety valve incorporating a whistle. An appliance is provided housing and mounting the foregoing elements. It may also house and mount toothbrushes and include a floss dispenser.

Abstract: This invention relates to the field of dispensing systems for the extraction of paste from squeezable tubes. Its features include puncturing the tube and forcing air pressure into same and apparatus for removal of predetermined amounts of paste. It is intended primarily as a dispenser for toothpaste to limit communicable disease transmission.