Abstract: The automated system includes a fluid dispenser having an applicator tip which is used to apply a fluid to an object. A compliance mechanism is utilized to assist in maintaining the applicator tip of the fluid dispenser in contact with the object during the coating operation. A robot can be utilized to advance the object past the applicator tip during the coating operation. The fluid dispenser is mounted on a movable arm to allow the fluid dispenser to be moved or rotated into and away from the position where fluid is applied to the object. The automated system provides a fluid application system that can apply a precise and repeatable layer of fluid to an object. The use of the robot allows larger objects to be easily handled and for the coating process to be done in a rapid fashion. The automated system is flexible and can readily accommodate changes in the object that is to be coated or the configuration of the coating that is to be applied to the object.

Abstract: An applicator tip (10) for applying fluid to the surface of an object is disclosed. The applicator tip (10) has a base (13) formed of thermoplastic material having a first surface and a second surface. At least one aperture (25) extends through the base. A fluid supply port (29) is operatively connected to the second surface of the base and is in communication with at least one aperture in the base. A fluid application material (35) is positioned on the first surface of the base. The fluid application material is positioned to receive fluid that passes through the aperture from the fluid supply port. The fluid application material is secured to the first surface of the base by a portion of the base that is caused to be molten and fuses to the fluid application material.

Abstract: The automated system includes a fluid dispenser having an applicator tip which is used to apply a fluid to an object. A compliance mechanism is utilized to assist in maintaining the applicator tip of the fluid dispenser in contact with the object during the coating operation. A robot can be utilized to advance the object past the applicator tip during the coating operation. The fluid dispenser is mounted on a movable arm to allow the fluid dispenser to be moved or rotated into and away from the position where fluid is applied to the object. The automated system provides a fluid application system that can apply a precise and repeatable layer of fluid to an object. The use of the robot allows larger objects to be easily handled and for the coating process to be done in a rapid fashion. The automated system is flexible and can readily accommodate changes in the object that is to be coated or the configuration of the coating that is to be applied to the object.