Pbod System
The present disclosure includes several pioneering discoveries. Including, a complete dose (10) of gas (60) formed essentially by motive gas (65). Dose (10) having the form of a plurality of bubbles (75). Also, a pbod ejected from any selected initial velocity. Also, a succession of identical bubbles formed essentially by a motive gas. Pbod systems transport a dose of liquid and a dose of gas to a target via pbod (70). Pbod systems may provide a solution to many various problems in many various technologies.
The present pioneering discovery resides in pbod systems. A pbod consists essentially of: a dose of liquid having the form of one ball; and a dose of gas having the form of a plurality of balls (bubbles); and the ball of liquid encloses the balls of gas; and the pbod is assembled on demand.
Portions of the present description are previously disclosed in COFFELT, JR. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/827,901 filed 19 Apr. 2004 (19.04.04).
Pbod systems are capable of providing a solution to numerous problems. Obviously, there are many pertinent problems in many various technologies, which are incorporated herein by reference. The pbod may be used in any of these pertinent arts. The following are examples of these pertinent arts and problems.
The art of forming pendant drops is well known. And further, there are many arts, which utilize the pendant drop, or droplet. For example, fuel injection, surgery, chemical/biological arts, or eye drops, including many others. And within these arts, a typical range of quantities is in the microliter range. For example, an over-the-counter pendant eye drop is between 15 to 30 microliters. It is also well known, an optimal quantity of liquid for opthalmic medicament applications is in the 5 to 7 microliter range. For example, TIMOLOL (Bausch & Lomb, Rochester, N.Y., U.S.). And in light of the high cost of opthalmic medicament, a 3 microliter dose is most likely highly desirable. The prior art clearly shows the art of forming one pendant drop on demand is not capable of reliably attaining these small microliter quantities.
It is also well known, an additional problem has existed for many years in the prior eye drop systems. Specifically, the requirement of tilting the head back to instill an eye drop. One method, which attempts to solve this problem is dispensing the medicament in a spray (plurality of droplets). However, these jet systems are clearly subject to inaccuracies, recalibration, and failures due to the presence of complex moving parts and substantial frictional forces.
Additional prior methods attempt to solve this problem (tilted head). For example, in Basilice, et al U.S. Pat. No. 5,848,999 Dispensing eye drops is disclosed. The methods of Basilice attempt to solve this problem by utilizing an apparatus designed to dispense the eye drop on the lower eye-lid. However, this method includes an abnormal displacement of the lower eye-lid. Therefore, the systems of Basilice are clearly not optimal.
Examples of complex dispensing apparatus include, Cohen et al U.S. Pat. No. RE 38,007 discloses a microdispensing opthalmic pump. The systems of Cohen inescapably dispense a plurality of droplets. The systems in Cohen are required to contain several complex moving parts. Where this complex prior system includes springs, balls, moving pistons, and check valves. Therefore, the systems of Cohen are subject to failure, error, repair, or recalibration due to the inescapable inherent frictional forces present in the system.
Further example of complex prior systems include Ershow et al U.S. Pat. No. 5,756,050 discloses a device for dispensing microdoses (microdrops/drops). For example, BIOMEK.RTM.1000 (BECKMAN) Automated Laboratory Workstation for dispensing cell lines and bacteria.
Further attempts to solve these pertinent problems are disclosed in Coffelt, Jr. U.S. Pat. No. 6,206,297 gasdrop and apparatus for manufacturing gasdrop. The accuracy of dosages in the gasdrop, in the microliter range, is unknown.
Excessive fuel emissions is also a well known problem. The emissions of combustion engines clearly must be reduced to a minimum. And it is obvious, if the same quantity of power can be produced from less fuel, the emissions will most likely be less.
Pbod systems is a pioneering technology. This technology is disclosed in Coffelt, Jr. International Publication No. WO 02/43845, published under the Patent Cooperation Treaty 6 Jun. 2002, Dual microliter dosage system. In WO 02/43845, the terms “dosdrop” and “microdose” refer to the article of manufacture in the present specification. And in the corresponding U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/296,487, filed 22 Nov. 2002, the term “dosdrop” is changed to “pbod” or “hbod”. This name change does not alter the structure disclosed in WO 02/43845. This change merely changes the name associated with the structure.
To make clear, the presently disclosed novel pbod systems manufacture the structure disclosed in WO 02/43845. For example, a “pbod” is a “dosdrop”; and a “pbod” is a “microdose” where each of these terms refer to the same structure. And the objective of these changes in name is to attain the most suitable name for this pioneering article of manufacture.
The term “pbod” refers to “plural body on demand”. A pbod consists essentially of: a dose of liquid having the form of one first ball; and a dose of gas having the form of a plurality of balls (bubbles); and the ball of liquid encloses the balls of gas; and the pbod is assembled on demand. And the pbod is ejected from the system on demand.
The prior pbod systems in WO 02/43845 utilize distinct discrete complex metering apparatus, first, to inject a dose of liquid into the flow channel; and second, insert a syringe needle into the dose of liquid; and third, inject a dose of gas into the liquid via the needle. The dose of gas is formed by inserting the needle into the liquid; and displacing the plunger of the syringe.
Subsequently, a motive gas ejects this dose of liquid and dose of gas having the form of one pbod. Where this motive gas may form a portion of the dose of gas. However the prior art motive gas does NOT form the complete dose of gas. The prior art does not contemplate any method or or apparatus to attain the results of the present invention.
Problems in these prior art pbod systems include the requirement of complex metering apparatus. Which inherently creates a relatively high probability for error and reduced reliability. It is well known, systems with moving parts are subject to error and failure due to frictional forces. And therefore, these complex pbod systems are subject to recalibration or repair. Further, the cost of manufacturing these prior pbod systems is relatively excessive.
Additional problems in the prior pbod systems include the problems associated with dispensing small microliter bubbles into a liquid. For example, experiments show, under normal conditions of the systems in WO 02/43845, the probability of ejecting a limited plurality of 0.07 microliter bubbles on demand from a syringe needle is very near zero. Therefore, this problem imposes quantitive limitations on the prior art pbod systems.
Additional problems in this prior art pbod system include, the system is not optimal to be used in a doctor-patient environment. And further, this prior art pbod system is not optimal for a person to self-instill a pbod to the eye. For example, a pbod dispensed on the eye for dryness relief.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITYIn light of all of the above-mentioned problems in the prior art pbod systems, and the numerous well known problems and failed attempts in all pertinent technologies, there is clearly a need for a simple inexpensive system, which will reliably dispense optimal doses of liquid on demand to a target. For example, it is well known, there are numerous attempts over a period of many years, which have failed to dispense small microliter doses in a unitary body. For example, the pendant drop.
Therefore, the present pioneering discovery will be greatly appreciated for providing simple, reliable pbod systems, which transport a unitary body of liquid and gas to a target. Where optimal accurate doses of liquid and gas are attainable. Further, provide a pbod system which is capable of allowing the doses to vary over a range of quantities IF desired. Further, provide a pbod system capable of being adapted to be used, for example, in a doctor-patient or self-instill environment; and possibly chemical/biological environment, for example, pipette systems; fuel injection environment, including many other technologies, which rely on this type of fluid and/or gas transportation. The present pioneering discovery will be greatly appreciated for providing reliable pbod systems, which may provide a solution to problems in many various technologies.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThe present pioneering discovery resides in pbod systems. A pbod consists essentially of: a dose of liquid having the form of one first ball; and a dose of gas having the form of a plurality of balls (bubbles); and the ball of liquid encloses the balls of gas; and these components of the pbod are assembled on demand. For example, first, the ball of liquid is disjointed from the gas; and second, the ball of liquid encloses the gas.
A novel pbod system resides in a pbod system where a complete dose of gas is formed essentially by a motive gas. Where this motive gas is the sole source of this complete dose of gas. And this dose of gas is subsequently the complete dose of gas in one pbod.
The present disclosure includes a second discovery. Where this second discovery is summarized as a pbod capable of being dispensed from any indiscriminate selected initial velocity. For example, a pbod having an initial velocity, which is either vertical, horizontal, or any other selected orientation.
The present disclosure includes a third discovery. This third discovery is summarized as a succession of identical bubbles formed essentially by a motive gas. Where the spacing of these bubbles appears to be nearly identical. Further, the diameter of these identical bubbles is inversely proportional to the flow speed. For example, a greater flow speed forms smaller bubbles. (i.e. 0.003 cm or 0.03 cm dia.)
The present disclosure includes a fourth discovery. This fourth discovery is summarized as a pbod system, which utilizes inherent residual liquid in a discharge tube. This system ejects a pbod from the discharge tube; and a dose of liquid inherently remains in the discharge tube; and this residual liquid inherently forms a plurality of transverse walls; and this residual liquid is used in conjunction with an additional dose of liquid to form a subsequent pbod. For example, a 3 ul dose of liquid is added to 1 ul residual liquid to form a 3 ul pbod.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGThe present invention is further described by reference to the appended drawings taken in conjunction with the following description wherein identical or corresponding parts are identified by the same reference character throughout the several views of the drawing where:
NOTE: the diameter of pbod dispensing tip (100A) is exagerated in
NOTE:
NOTE:
NOTE:
The present pioneering discovery resides in pbod systems. Including, a pbod system where a complete dose of gas is formed essentially by a motive gas. Where this dose of gas is the complete dose of gas in one pbod.
The pbod is referred to as a “microdose” in the International Application published under the Patent Cooperation Treaty under No. WO 02/43845, 6 Jun. 2002 (06.06.02), Dual Microliter Dosage System.
The structure of the microdose in WO 02/43845 is the same structure disclosed in the present specification. Where this structure is presently identified by the term “pbod”. The name is changed to attain the most suitable name for this pioneering article of manufacture.
A pbod consists essentially of: a dose of liquid having the form of one first ball; and a dose of gas having the form of a plurality of balls (bubbles); and the ball of liquid encloses the balls of gas; and these components of the pbod are assembled on demand. For example, first, the liquid is disjointed from the gas, and second, the ball of liquid encloses the balls of gas. The pbod is subsequently ejected from the system.
Each dose, liquid, gas, motive gas, and additional pertinent parameters must be capable to assemble a pbod on demand. If a pbod is formed, it can be concluded, all pertinent parameters are capable to form one pbod.
A pbod exists in two states. First, a non-discrete pbod attached to a surface. Second, a discrete pbod.
Objectives of the present invention include, provide a pbod system where a complete dose of gas is formed essentially by a motive gas. Further, provide a pbod system, which is simple, relatively inexpensive, and substantially more reliable over the prior art. Further, provide a pbod system capable of attaining optimal dosages. i.e. opthalmic, fuel-injection, including many others. Further, provide a pbod system, which is not subject to substantial frictional forces, recalibration, or mechanical failure due to frictional forces. i.e. moving pistons.
A second discovery includes a pbod capable of being dispensed from any indiscriminate selected initial velocity. For example, a pbod having an initial velocity, which is either vertical, horizontal, or any other selected orientation.
A third discovery includes a succession of identical bubbles formed essentially by a motive gas. Where the spacing of these bubbles appears to be nearly identical. Further, the diameter of these identical bubbles is inversely proportional to the flow speed. For example, a greater flow speed forms smaller bubbles. For example, a flow speed of [x] forms bubbles of 0.03 cm diameter; and a flow speed of [y] forms bubbles of 0.003 cm diameter; where [y] is greater than [x].
A fourth discovery includes a pbod system, which utilizes inherent residual liquid in a discharge tube. First, this pbod system ejects a pbod from the discharge tube; and second, a dose of liquid inherently remains in the discharge tube; and third, this residual liquid inherently forms a plurality of transverse walls; and this residual liquid is used in conjunction with an additional dose of liquid to form a subsequent pbod. For example, a 3 ul dose of liquid is added to 1 ul residual liquid to form a 3 ul pbod.
Meaning of TERMS: The present specification contains well known structures having axis of symmetry. Where these structures have a longitudinal axis of symmetry, and a transverse axis of symmetry.
For example, in a cylindrical shaped tube, the transverse axis of symmetry coincides with a diameter of the tube. And the longitudinal axis of symmetry is a line perpendicular to the diameter and intersecting the mid-point of the diameter.
The following embodiments are described with reference to the longitudinal axis of symmetry. For example, in
The term “axis” as used hereinafter means: “the longitudinal axis of symmetry”.
The term “transverse” as used hereinafter means: “a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of symmetry”. For example, in
The present invention is hereinafter described with reference to the appended drawings where identical or corresponding parts are identified by the same reference character throughout the several views of the drawing.
The following is a description of general embodiments. And more specific embodiments of the appended figures are provided by the following prototypes.
The lower end of tip (100A) is a cylindrical shaped tube (27). Tube (27) having a flat annular outlet (25).
A conical shaped tube (28) is rigidly attached to the upper end of tube (27). The upper end of tube (28) is monolithic with a transverse disc shaped wall. This disc shaped wall having a centrally located opening (35). For example, tube (28), the disc shaped wall, and opening (35) can be a standard VISINE dispensing tip. i.e. over-the-counter eye drops.
There are clearly standard methods to form tube (27) and tube (28) as a unitary body. Therefore, the lower end of tip (100A) does not show the joints and resin (4) in
A cylindrical shaped tube (29) is rigidly attached to the upper end of tube (28). This attachment is formed by annular epoxy resin (4). An annular leak-tight seal is formed at this point of attachment. Tube (29) is co-axial with tube (28).
The lower end of tube (29) is co-planar with the upper end of tube (28).
A cylindrical shaped tube (11) is rigidly attached to the upper end of tube (29). The upper flat annular surface 5 of tube (11) is co-planar with the upper flat annular surface of tube (29). Tube (11) is attached to tube (29) by annular epoxy resin (2). The boundaries of resin (2) are limited to the lower flat annular surface of tube (11). The boundaries of resin (2) are also limited to the outer surface of tube (29).
Structure (22) is formed of two flat rectangular converging walls.
A tube (43) is rigidly attached to the lower portion of tube (27), as shown in
Tube (43) is rigidly attached to a bottle (40) as shown in
The lower end of tube (43) includes a removeable cap (45), and a removeable seal (44). There are clearly many standard methods to form a cap and seal. For example, the cap and tip on a standard VISINE bottle (eye drop bottle). Bottle (40) also includes a removeable cap (41), and a removeable seal (42).
Prototype R29 is similar to
TO make clear: for prototype R29: the applied collapsing force (at points S and T) is horizontal; and the axis of tube (27) is vertical.
For prototype R29: dispensing tip (100A) is located near the neck of the VISINE bottle. Where an objective of this location is to avoid damage to the dispensing tip (100A) during collapsing of the bottle walls.
This pbod dispensing apparatus shown in
Pbod (70) contains three bubbles (75). Where this quantity of three bubbles (75) is within the capabilities of the present specification. And these three bubbles (75) form the complete dose (10). For example, dose (10) is 1 ul of gas (60); therefore, the first bubble (75) contains 0.3 ul of gas (60); and the second bubble (75) contains 0.3 ul of gas (60); and the third bubble (75) contains 0.3 ul of gas (60); and each of these three bubbles (75) is formed by motive gas (65). The motive gas (65) forms the three bubbles (75). And these three bubbles (75) form the complete dose (10) of pbod (70).
Methods to form pbod (70) are provided in the following experiments.
VISINE tip (201) is located at the typical location on the bottle, which dispenses a 30 ul pendant drop. The VISINE tip (201)is not altered. The VISINE bottle (200) is not altered.
The upper end of tube (202) is cut to fit into the inner diameter of tip (201). Where these cuts form an inverted conical shape at the upper end of tube (202). Tube (202) is fitted to tip (201) such that a leak-tight seal is formed.
Prototype R22 is utilized to form a succession of identical bubbles (204).
Prototype R22 is described further in the following table.
The upper end of a tube (302) is inserted approximately 0.5 cm into the lower end of tube (301). The lower end of tube (301) is indicated by reference numeral (310).
Prototype R11 is utilized to dispense a pbod (70). The scale of
Prototype R11 is described further in the following table. A concise method of utilizing prototype R11 is provided in the following Experiment Q.
The following prototypes are particular embodiments of the appended figures of the drawing. Where the present description of these figures, and the following description in the prototype table define the structure of the prototype. Each prototype table contains a list of the pertinent figures of the drawing. For example, in prototype table PROTOTYPE R29,
All prototypes presented herein are made by the present Inventor. All prototypes are made by hand. Also, only one prototype of each model No. exists. For example, only one prototype R29 exists.
All cuts in all prototypes are made with a STANLEY knife (pencil style handle) with blade model No. 11-411 UPC No. 076174114119.
The cuts are made according to the following steps:
First, placing one sheet of paper (20 lb) on a rigid solid horizontal wooden table;
second, placing the part on the sheet of paper;
third, placing the cutting edge of the blade on the surface of the part; and the cutting edge of the blade resides approximately horizontal; and the cutting edge of the blade remains approximately horizontal throughout the entire cut;
fourth, slowly increasing the force on the handle in one vertical direction until cutting begins; and maintaining an approximate constant speed throughout the entire cut; and
maintaining only one vertical direction of cutting throughout the entire cut.
NOTE: each entire surface is cut with only one continuous motion. For example, while cutting a 0.5 cm diameter tube, the blade traverses a vertical distance of 0.5 cm in one continuous motion.
The parts of prototype R29 are assembled according to the following steps, including:
First, cutting all parts to the desired dimension;
second, inserting a smooth solid copper wire into the outlet end of tube (27), such that the end of the wire extends approximately 0.8 cm beyond the upper end of tube (27); and the OD of the wire matches the ID of tube (27) to a slip-fit (i.e. the OD of the wire is approximately 0.02 cm less than the ID of tube (27);
third, placing tube (28) on the upper end of tube (27) such that the wire maintains tube (28) co-axial with tube (27);
fourth, applying the lower portion of annular resin (4) as shown in
fifth, placing tube (29) on tube (28) as shown in
sixth, placing tube (11) on the upper end of tube (29) as shown in
seventh, placing structure (22) on the upper end of tube (29) and applying resin (1) as shown in
eighth, while holding only tube (27), removing the copper wire from tube (27) (objective is to not break seal of resin (4));
ninth, attaching tube (27) to tube (43) with resin (5) as shown in
tenth, attaching tube (43) to bottle (40) as shown in
The parts of prototype R29 are placed by hand at the desired location; and the epoxy resin is applied; and the location of the part is adjusted as necessary using a narrow steel rod and magnifying glass (approximately 3 times power). The dimensions of the prototype are checked after drying.
For prototype R29: structure (22) is formed from one flat sheet of PVC; and first, cut to the desired width; and second, bend to two flat parallel walls; and third, cut to the desired height; and fourth, separate the two walls to the desired dimension Y.
The present figures of the drawing depict the configuration of the present prototypes. These figures are an approximate scaled version of the actual prototype. Therefore, IF necessary, these figures of the drawing can be utilized to determine the location of a part. Also, parts of the prototypes may be not shown for clarity.
Obviously, the appended figures of the drawing do not show the inherent results of the above-described method of forming the present prototypes. For example, resultant surface roughness of a cut surface, edge sharpness of a cut surface, or very small gaps between surfaces (i.e. approximately 0.002 cm, or approximately 0.01 cm). All inherent features, which result from the method of making the present prototypes described herein (made by hand) form a part of the present disclosure.
NOTE:
resin (1) is 0.1 cm wide; 0.13 length; 0.08 cm height; and is located at two places; and the 0.13 cm length of resin (1) coincides with the dimension N of structure (22).
The following table is a list of the experiments, the prototype utilized in the experiment, and a summary of an objective of the experiment:
Experiment X is executed according to the following steps [Xa.] to [Xg.] as follows:
[Xa.] Holding bottle (40) in one hand at points S and point T with the thumb and forefinger such that structure (22) is immersed in liquid (50) (i.e.
[Xb.] observing bottle (40) to confirm structure (22) is immersed in liquid (50);
[Xc.] slowly collapsing bottle (40) at points S and point T with the thumb and forefinger approximately 0.5 cm such that liquid (50) is visible at outlet (25); and the end of liquid (50) is located at or near the outlet (25) as shown in
[Xd.] slowly removing the collapsing force at points S and point T; and simultaneously maintain enough compressive force to hold the bottle; and simultaneously rotating bottle (40) to a dispensing position shown in
[Xe.] waiting approximately 1 to 2 seconds; and do not wait more than approximately 5 seconds to execute step [Xf.];
[Xf.] collapsing bottle (40) at points S and point T with the thumb and forefinger at approximately 0.5 cm per second, or approximately 0.4 cm per second (i.e. 0.5 cm/1 second, or 0.4 cm/1 second); and dispensing a pbod on the test paper;
NOTE: outlet (25) is disposed approximately 9 cm above the test paper for all trials in Experiment X;
[Xg.] placing bottle (40) at a typical rest position for the VISINE bottle (i.e. the axis of tube (27) is horizontal); and measuring the outer diameter of the liquid on the test paper; and recording data. End of EXPERIMENT X.
EXPERIMENT V is executed according to the following steps [Va.] to [Vc.] as follows:
[Va.] Holding bottle (40) at points S and point T, and rotating bottle (40) such that structure (22) is immersed in liquid (50) (i.e.
[Vb.] rotating bottle (40) to an inverted position of
[Vc.] collapsing bottle (40) at points S and point T with the thumb and forefinger at approximately 0.5 cm per second, or approximately 0.4 cm per second; and observing results; and recording results. End of EXPERIMENT V.
EXPERIMENT H is executed according to the following steps [Ha.] to [Hc.] as follows:
[Ha.] Holding bottle (40) at points S and point T, and rotating bottle (40) such that structure (22) is immersed in liquid (50) (i.e.
[Hb.] rotating bottle (40) such that the axis of tube (27) is horizontal and structure (22) is surrounded by gas (60);
[Hc.] collapsing bottle (40) at points S and point T with the thumb and forefinger at approximately 0.5 cm per second, or approximately 0.4 cm per second; and observing results; and recording data. End of EXPERIMENT H.
EXPERIMENT L is executed according to the following steps [La.] to [Lc.] as follows:
[La.] Holding bottle (40) at points S and point T such that the axis of tube (27) is vertical and liquid (50) is disposed at the lower portion of bottle (40) as shown in
[Lb.] rotating bottle (40) to 45 degrees from the position of
[Lc.] collapsing bottle (40) at points S and point T with the thumb and forefinger at approximately 0.5 cm per second, or approximately 0.4 cm per second; and observing results; and recording data. End of EXPERIMENT L.
EXPERIMENT U is executed according to the following steps [Ua.] to [Ud.] as follows:
[Ua.] Notifying another person the following steps are an experiment;
[Ub.] the present Inventor giving verbal and visual instructions to this other person; where these instructions are to execute Experiment X according to the steps [Xa.] to [Xg.] set forth herein;
[Uc.] Inventor observing this other person execute steps [Xa.] to step [Xg.];
[Ud.] Inventor observing, recording, and measuring the results of the trial. End of EXPERIMENT U.
EXPERIMENT E is executed according to the following steps [Ea.] to [Ef.] as follows:
[Ea.] Removing tip (201) from bottle (200) (do not remove tube (202) from tip (201));
[Eb.] injecting approximately 20 to 60 ul of liquid (207) in dispensing tip (201) such that the upper surface (211) is approximately 0.2 cm above opening (35);
[Ec.] replacing tip (201) on bottle (200);
[Ed.] rotating bottle (200) such that the axis of tube (202) is generally vertical as shown in
[Ee.] collapsing bottle (200) at points S and point T at an approximate constant speed of 0.1 cm per second, or 0.4 cm per second (collapse with thumb and forefinger);
[Ef.] observing the upper end of tube (202). End of EXPERIMENT E.
EXPERIMENT Q is executed according to the following steps [Qa.] to [Qe.] as follows:
[Qa.] Removing tube (302) from tube (301);
[Qb.] injecting 6.7 ul of liquid into the lower end (310) of tube (301) using metered syringe (1 cc/29 guage needle);
[Qc.] replacing tube (302) into tube (301); and tube (302) extends approximately 0.5 cm into tube (301); and maintain an appropriate compressive force at points S and point T such that the dose of liquid remains in a static state (no motion); and the dose of liquid is located at the lower end of tube (301);
[Qd.] rotating bottle (300) such that the axis of tube (302) is generally vertical as shown in
[Qe.] collapsing bottle (300) at points S and point T with the thumb and forefinger at approximate constant speed of approximately 0.1 cm per second to approximately 0.3 cm per second, and a total distance of approximately 0.5 cm; and observing the discrete pbod (i.e. pbod (70) in
NOTE: The residual liquid in tube (302) is not removed; and the residual liquid in tube (301) is not removed. Tube (301) and tube (302) contain residual liquid at the end of step [Qe.].
NOTE: An additional step [Qf.] is added for trials Nos. 12 to 39. This step [Qf.] is as follows:
[Qf.] removing tube (302) from tube (301); and placing tube (302) on a horizontal surface; and measuring the location and width of the residual liquid in tube (302).
End of EXPERIMENT Q.
EXPERIMENT M is executed according to the following steps [Ma.] to [Mc.] as follows:
[Ma.] Placing one sheet of test paper on scale;
[Mb.] closing all sides of breeze break; and set zero function;
[Mc.] dispensing pbod onto test paper according to steps in Experiment X; and recording electronic display of the mass.
End of EXPERIMENT M.
EXPLANATION OF TABLE Q R11 L DATA
Quantity of liquid (50) injected into tube (301) is 7 ul;
D = estimated diameter of discrete pbod in millimeters (mm);
v = volume of residue in tube (302) in microliters.
NOTE:
overspray does NOT occur for any trials in Experiment Q, therefore, this item is omitted in the following tables.
NOTE:
trials Nos. 12 to 39 indicate the location and length of the residual liquid in tube (302). Dash (-) = air; “x” = liquid. The table contains a series of dashes (-) and “x” There is a total of thirty characters for each line (i.e. trial No. 13 contains 28 dashes and 2 “x”). Each character represents 1 mm length of tube (302). Tube (302) is 30 mm length, therefore 30 characters per line. Therefore, each character represents the
NOTE:
this is the same person No. 1 (age 74), which executed Experiment U on 20 Jul. 2004; the general health of this person is now rated at 3; on 15 August, this person has a broken left wrist, which was broken about 30 Jul. 2004; wearing a cast; having moderate continuous pain; using EXTRA STRENGTH TYLENOL for pain; reluctant to execute experiment; required complete instructions of the experimental steps; is unable to remember the appropriate experimental
The above tables of empirical data are labeled according to the experiment, the prototype utilized in the experiment, and the liquid (50) utilized in the experiment. For example, TABLE X R29 L is Experiment X, prototype R29, and liquid (50) is REFRESH LIQUIGEL.
Gas (60) is air for all trials in all experiments. The present Inventor executes all trials in all experiments, except as noted in Experiment U.
EXPERIMENT V RESULTS: prototype R29; liquid (50)=REFRESH LIQUIGEL; vertical orientation (opposite direction of a gravity vector): Trial No. 1 dispenses a pbod having a narrow parabolic path, where the height is about 5 cm, and the horizontal distance is about 1 cm. Trials No. 2 to 5 are not successful. Trials Nos. 6 and 7 dispense a pbod (similar path to trial No. 1). Trial Nos. 8 to 10 are not successful. Trial No. 11 dispenses a pbod (similar path to trial No. 1); and each pbod contains approximately 3 ul of liquid (50). Dose (77) is about 3 ul; and dose (10) is about 0.7 ul; and each pbod contains approximately three bubbles (75).
EXPERIMENT H RESULTS: prototype R29; liquid (50)=REFRESH LIQUIGEL: horizontal orientation: Trial No. 1 dispenses a pbod a horizontal distance of about 7 cm; Trials Nos. 2 to 4 are not successful. Trials Nos. 5 and 6 dispense a pbod a horizontal distance of about 4 cm. Trials Nos. 7 to 10 are not successful. And each pbod contains approximately 3 ul of liquid (50). Dose (77) is about 3 ul; and dose (10) is about 0.7 ul; and each pbod contains approximately three bubbles (75).
EXPERIMENT L RESULTS: prototype R29; liquid (50)=REFRESH LIQUIGEL: 45 degree orientation: Trial No. 1 is not successful. Trial No. 2 and 3 dispenses a pbod having a parabolic path. Trial Nos. 4 to 7 are not successful. Trial Nos. 8 and 9 dispense a pbod having a parabolic path; and each pbod contains approximately 3 ul of liquid (50). Dose (77) is about 3 ul; and dose (10) is about 0.7 ul; and each pbod contains approximately three bubbles (75).
The following is a summary of the events, which occur in Experiment X. Including, first the bottle (40) is in a position similar as shown in
The following is a summary of the events, which occur in Experiment V. Including, first, structure (22) is surrounded by air; and second, structure (22) is immersed in liquid (50) for a period of approximately 2 to 3 seconds; and third, a dose of liquid (50) inherently flows between the two flat walls of structure (22) (i.e. capilary); and fourth, the bottle is rotated such that structure (22) is surrounded by gas (60); and fifth, a motive gas (65) forms a dose (10)of gas (60), and this dose (10) has the form of a plurality of bubbles (75), and this dose (10) is the complete dose of gas in one pbod (70).
The events in Experiment H, and Experiment L are similar to the above-described events of Experiment V.
EXPERIMENT E RESULTS: prototype R22; liquid (207) is REFRESH LIQUIGEL (ALLERGAN, INC.): Experiment E forms a succession of identical bubbles (204). For a collapsing speed of about 0.1 cm per second, the diameter of the bubbles is approximately 0.03 cm, and spaced about 0.09 cm equally distant; and this trial contains about 30 bubbles. Several additional consecutive trials are executed having identical results to the above-described results of Experiment E.
(Experiment E results) For a collapsing speed of about 0.4 cm per second, the bubbles are about 0.007 cm diameter, and spaced about 0.04 cm equally distant, and this trial contains about 70 bubbles (seventy). Several additional consecutive trials are executed having identical results to the above-describes results.
To summarize the events in Experiment E, including, first, bottle (200) contains air (212); and second, about sixty microliters of liquid (207) is disposed in tip (201) such that the upper surface (211) is about 0.2 cm above opening (35); and third, tip (201) is place on bottle (200); and fourth, a pressure drop over opening (35) imposes liquid (207) to flow down into tube (202); and fifth, upon near depletion of liquid in tip (201), a succession of identical bubbles (204) is formed in the upper portion of tube (202); liquid (207) encloses bubbles (204).
EXPERIMENT E RESULTS: Variations of prototype R22 have disensed pbods. For example, where the length of tube (202) is 1 cm or 0.5 cm; and the pbod contains about 7 ul liquid (207).
ManufacturesA & D ENGINEERING, Milpitas, Calif. 95035, U.S.
ALLERGAN, INC., Irvine, Calif. 92612, U.S.
BECTON DICKINSON, Franklin Lakes, N.J. 07417, U.S.
BOTTLING GROUP, LLC, Riverside, Calif. 92606, U.S.
JB WELD COMPANY, Sulphur Springs, Tex. 75483, U.S.
L.S. STARRETT, Athol, Mass., U.S.
PFIZER INC CONSUMER HEALTHCARE, Morris Plains, N.J., 07950, U.S.
SPECTRUM CHROMOTOGRAPHY, Houston, Tex. 77073, U.S.
SPERLE SCALES, INC, Santa Fe Springs, Calif. 90670 U.S.
STANLEY TOOLS, New Britain, Conn. 06053, U.S.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTIONThe present disclosure includes several pioneering discoveries. Including, a complete dose of gas formed essentially by a motive gas; and a pbod formed utilizing inherent residual liquid in a discharge tube; and a pbod ejected from any indiscriminate selected initial velocity; and a succession of identical bubbles capable of forming the complete dose of gas in one pbod.
The best mode for carrying out these present discoveries is set forth in the present respective experiments and prototypes. The best mode to form a complete dose of gas is imposing an appropriate motive gas to flow through an appropriate flow channel. Where this motive gas imposes a dose of liquid to flow through the flow channel; and the motive gas forms the complete dose of gas.
Alternate EmbodimentsThere are many variations of dispensing tip (100A), which are capable of dispensing a pbod. Several of these embodiments are set forth in Coffelt, Jr. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/827,901 filed 19 Apr. 2004 (19.04.04). For example, structure (22) may have an arch shape. The prototypes in Ser. No. 10/827,901 dispense pbods, and it is contemplated that these alternate embodiments will have successful results in conjuntction with Experiment X. Experiment X and the prototypes of Ser. No. 10/827,901 should have similar results to the above results. The prototypes in Ser. No. 10/827,901 have dispensed 3 ul pbods having initial velocities of 135 degrees, 45 degrees, including other orientations.
There are clearly many well known methods to verify the location of dose (77) in
For example, the dispensing tip can be integrally formed with a lens. Therefore, allowing dose (77) to be observed in
The present figures of the drawing show the tubes having a straight axis. The tubes utilized in the present prototypes have an arcuate shaped axis. This inherent arcuate shape is a result of the method of storage of the tube. i.e. bulk storage on a roll. The radius of this arc is estimated to be about 13 cm. NOTE: The initial velocity of the pbod in Experiment X is approximately parallel to a gravity vector. Initial velocity meaning the speed and direction immediately below outlet (25).
Alternate liquids are capable to form a pbod. Including, water, i.e. AQUAFINA DRINKING WATER, (Bottling Group, LLC), TIMOLOL 0.5% or 0.3%, VISINE, CLEAR EYES.
Experiments show that the most likely source of the overspray in Experiment X is residual liquid ejected immediately after the pbod is ejected. In light of the results of Experiment Q, it is contemplated that variations of prototype R29 will have no overspray. Also, variations of the viscosity of the liquid may eliminate the overspray.
The present specification contains specific embodiments of apparatus utilized to form the present novel pbod systems, and these embodiments are presented for example only. And there are many alternate configurations, which are capable of forming the present novel pbod systems. Where these alternate configurations can be empericaly determined. For example, alternate attachment means, which do not form chemical reactions with liquid (50); alternate shapes; alternate dimensions; alternate material i.e. glass; alternate liquid (50); alternate viscosities of liquid (50); alternate gas (60) i.e. Hydrogen or Helium, motor fuel i.e. commonly referred to as nitrous oxide; alternate doses of liquid (50) i.e. 1 ul, 2 ul, or 3 ul including others; alternate ranges of dose (77); alternate quantity of dose (10); alternate collapsing speeds; alternate collapsing distance of the bottle walls; alternate rest positions i.e. a rest position where structure (22) is immersed in liquid (50); and alternate configurations of the bottle (40).
The present specification contains specific embodiments of the present novel pbod systems, and these specific embodiments are provided for example only. Further, the present inventions are clearly pioneering discoveries, and the present inventions are not limited to the specific embodiments set forth herein, and only such limitations should be imposed as are set forth in the appended claims.
Claims
1. (canceled)
2. (canceled)
3. A pbod system comprising:
- a complete dose of gas composed essentially by a motive gas;
- said dose of gas composing a plurality of balls;
- said dose of gas is the complete dose of gas in one pbod.
4. A method of dispensing a liquid comprising the steps of:
- a motive gas ejecting only one ball of liquid, where the quantity of said liquid is a dose; and said motive gas composing a complete dose of gas, where said complete dose of gas has the form of a plurality of balls; and said ball of liquid encloses said complete dose of gas.
5. The method of dispensing a liquid according to claim 4 wherein, said ball of liquid is ejected from an aperture; and said ball of liquid having a direction of motion, which is not in the direction of an Earth gravity vector; and said direction of motion exists on an interval between an instant after said ejection and an instant prior to said ball of liquid contacts a target.
6. An on demand method of dispensing 4 to 8 micro liters of liquid comprising the steps of: ejecting 4 to 8 micro liters of liquid on each selected instant, wherein said ejected liquid has the form of only one unitary body.
7. The on demand method of dispensing 4 to 8 micro liters of liquid according to claim 6 further including, a motive gas ejecting said liquid; and said motive gas composing a complete dose of gas; and said complete dose of gas having the form of a plurality of balls; and said ejected liquid encloses said complete dose of gas.
Type: Application
Filed: Aug 16, 2004
Publication Date: Nov 8, 2007
Inventor: Louis Coffelt (Avenal, CA)
Application Number: 11/578,745
International Classification: B65D 47/18 (20060101);
