Dispensing applicator for fluids

A hand-held dispensing applicator comprising a source of fluid, a frangible applicator tip attached to the fluid source, and an absorbent member attached to the frangible applicator tip. The applicator may be applicable for a medical purpose. When the frangible applicator tip is broken, the fluid flows from the source to the absorbent member, spread on a surface. The frangible applicator tip may comprise a support element permanently connected to the fluid source, a relatively rigid tongue element, and a frangible region there between. The tongue element may comprise ribs for reinforcing the tongue element. The applicator tip may comprise a semi-permeable or non-permeable cover to control the speed and direction of the dispersion of the fluid.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed in general to means for swabbing a surface (e.g., skin) that is gripped by a user at one end and has a sponge or absorbent material at the other end. Further, the present invention is directed to such means for swabbing a surface having a source of a fluid (e.g., disinfectant or medicament) in communication with the sponge or absorbent material. Specifically, the present invention is directed to such a fluid-containing means for swabbing a surface further having an internal means that may be fractured or separated for the purpose of allowing the fluid to flow from the fluid source to the sponge or absorbent material. Further, the present invention is directed to such a fluid-containing means for swabbing a surface further having an anvil structure internal to the fluid-containing means with any of a variety of configurations for causing the fracture of the fracture means.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Applicators consisting of a wooden or plastic tube having a bud of cotton on one or both ends, are widely used for numerous purposes, such as the topical application of substances to the human body. A demand exists for a product of this kind, which serves not only as an applicator, but also as a container for substances that are to be applied to the human body. To be practical, such a device would have to have a manually frangible portion that can readily be broken, while at the same time being so constructed so as to prevent inadvertent fracture. An applicator of this nature would be useful for numerous purposes.

Prior dispensing applicators allow an excess amount of fluid to flow too quickly, and the fluid tends to pool on the surface. Depending upon the fluid being dispensed, such pooling can lead to patient discomfort, chemical burns, and even electrical shock if the dispensed fluid comes into contact with electrical leads attached to the patient's body.

Moreover, in prior art dispensing applicators, the dispensed fluid tends to accumulate at the rear-most portion of the absorbent member, which is closest to the fluid source, instead of preferably evenly spreading throughout the absorbent member. As the volume of the dispensed fluid gradually increases at the rear portion of the absorbent member, the fluid begins to uncontrollably drip, thus, causing substantial inconvenience to a user.

A need, therefore, exists for a dispensing applicator overcoming the above-identified drawbacks of the known related art. In particular, a further need exists for a hand-held dispensing applicator that has a simple structure allowing the practitioner to deliver fluid to the surfaces to be treated in a controllable manner. Another need exists for a dispensing applicator that has an easily actuatable structure requiring minimal application of manual force. Further, a need exists for a hand-held dispensing applicator that has a structure minimizing uncontrollable distribution of fluid.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In light of the foregoing, the present invention provides a hand-held dispensing applicator comprising a source of fluid, a frangible applicator tip attached to the fluid source, and an absorbent member attached to the frangible applicator tip. When the frangible applicator tip is broken, fluid flows from the source to the absorbent member, whereby the fluid is applied and spread on a surface. Preferably, the fluid is applied and spread on a surface in a controlled amount. Preferably, the fluid source is in the shape of a hollow tube container that is integrally formed, as a single piece, from a relatively rigid synthetic resinous material. Preferably, the frangible applicator tip comprises a support element permanently connected to the fluid source, a relatively rigid tongue element extending outwardly of the support element at an end of the container, and a frangible region therebetween. Extending through the support element is a fluid conduit that is open at the end attached to the fluid source and sealed by the tongue element at the end attached to the absorbent member. By deflecting the tongue element relative to the support element, with a force of substantially predetermined magnitude, the frangible region between the tongue and support elements will fracture, thereby permitting fluid to flow from the fluid source through the conduit, and into the attached absorbent member. Preferably, the tongue element comprises ribs for reinforcing the tongue element to resist unintentional breaking of the frangible region. More preferably, the applicator tip comprises a semi-permeable or non-permeable cover disposed around the frangible region to control the speed and direction of the dispersion of the fluid in the absorbent member.

In another embodiment, the dispensing applicator comprises a mounting body which has a stem piece extending from a mounting body top part, and a lower body part which carries at an underside of the latter, an absorbent applicator. An elongated fluid container having a first end that is attachable at a second opposite end thereof, and with a snap fit, in the stem piece. Optionally, threading of the first end of the fluid container may be used to secure to the stem piece. The container includes a frangible region remote from said first end, and a rigid tongue element extends longitudinally from the frangible region, a tip end of the tongue element defining the container opposite second end.

A fracture anvil is preferably disposed in the stem piece. To fracture the container frangible region in order to release fluid therefrom and into the absorbent applicator, a relative movement between the container, i.e., the tongue element thereof, and the fracture anvil is effected. This is done with the tongue element in contact with the fracture anvil. The contact and relative movement produce the rupture of the frangible region and, more specifically at the joinder location of the tongue element and frangible region.

In one form, the fracture anvil is a cylindrical body having a cruciform passage extending therethrough and which receives the flat blade-like tongue element. In a second form, the fracture anvil is a cylindrical body having a partial or one-half cruciform passage extending therethrough and which receives the flat blade-like tongue element. By effecting a relative rotation between the fracture anvil and the container, the fracture of the frangible region results. Optionally, the cruciform passage may extend completely through the fracture anvil, or may only extend partially through the fracture anvil.

In another form, the fracture anvil is a cylindrical body having a partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage (e.g., seeFIG. 42A) extending therethrough and which receives the flat blade-like tongue element. By effecting a relative rotation between the fracture anvil and the container, the partial fracture of the frangible region results. Optionally, the partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage may extend completely through the fracture anvil, or may only extend partially through the fracture anvil.

In still another form, the fracture anvil is a truncated cylinder received in the stem piece. By urging the container axially into the stem piece and against an inclined end face of the fracture anvil, the tongue element is deflected laterally from its normal disposition to cause the rupture at the joinder location thereof with the remainder frangible region. With the joinder structure ruptured, the fluid contents release from the container. Flow gutters or channels are defined in the fracture anvil to insure free contents flow from the container past or through the fracture anvil to the absorbent applicator. The arrangement of the tongue element and its structure is designed such as to allow retention of at least one ribbon residue material connecting the tongue element to the frangible region precluding passing of the tongue element into a contents flow channel wherein it could impede or block flow to the absorbent applicator.

A further feature provides a snap fit cap fitted on an opposite contents filling end of the container opposite the tongue member end, and provided with a seal that excludes any possible and contaminating air presence in the contents at the container end. Optionally, the cap may be screwed on or permanently affixed with glue or some other adhesive.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As required, a detailed illustrative embodiment of the present invention is disclosed herein. However, techniques, systems, compositions and operating structures in accordance with the present invention may be embodied in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, forms and modes, some of which may be quite different from those in the disclosed embodiment. Consequently, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative, yet in that regard, they are deemed to afford the best embodiment for purposes of disclosure and to provide a basis for the claims herein which define the scope of the present invention.

Reference will now be made in detail to several embodiments of the invention that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps. The drawings are in simplified form and are not to precise scale. For purposes of convenience and clarity only, directional terms, such as top, bottom, up, down, over, above, and below may be used with respect to the drawings. These and similar directional terms should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention in any manner. The words “connect,” “couple,” and similar terms with their inflectional morphemes do not necessarily denote direct and immediate connections, but also include connections through mediate elements or devices.

Referring now to the drawings,FIGS. 1 and 2in particular, illustrate a dispensing applicator according to the present invention generally indicated as reference numeral1. Dispensing applicator1comprises an absorbent applicator member8, a fluid source10, and an applicator tip15. Absorbent member8may be of any suitable shape, such as cubic, cylindrical, conical, or wedge-like, and may comprise any suitable absorbent material, such as cotton or sponge. Fluid source10, or handle, may have any suitable shape. As shown inFIG. 1, fluid source10is preferably a hollow, generally cylindrical body. The end of fluid source body located adjacent to absorbent member8is preferably sealed thereto at a joint or seam30, such as by heat sealing, to enclose the fluid substance contained within fluid source body10. Applicator tip15comprises an attachment member17and tongue member18joined thereto by a tapered frangible region or juncture19.

Tongue member18is preferably a flat and broad shape that extends a distance into absorbent member8, such that tongue member18is longer than it is wide (seeFIGS. 4A to 4D). It should be noted that the attachment member17is relatively thick adjacent the fluid source body10, and tapers toward frangible juncture19. Absorbent member8is preferably connected to attachment member17and/or fluid source body10.

The manner of utilizing dispensing applicator1will be self-evident, and simply involves holding the dispensing applicator1with the absorbent application member8against an application surface. Dispensing applicator1is held such that tongue member18is at an acute angle (i.e., substantially parallel) to the application surface. Sufficient downward pressure of tongue member18against the application surface will deflect tongue member18from the central axis c (seeFIGS. 2,4A,5A) of the fluid source body10. At a pre-determined amount of deflection, the frangible juncture19will fracture or break proximate the intersection thereof but will not separate. Fracture of the frangible juncture19will desirably be achieved by the application of approximately 0.25 to 5 pounds of force of tongue member18against the application surface and will cause opening for fluid flow proximate junctures or apertures12as will be discussed more fully below.

Referring still toFIG. 1, a dip mold process may be used to make source body10, applicator tip15, or both. The dip molding process begins with preheating of a male mold made from a material having relatively high heat capacity and coefficient of thermal conductivity. This heated mold is then placed in a fluidized bed of meltable particulate resinous material for a time needed to provide a coating of a desired thickness. The mold with melted resinous material is then removed from the fluidized bed, heated a second time and cooled. Finally the tube component is stripped from the mold.

As noted above, it is important for the proper functioning of the applicator that the tube be fabricated from a material that is sufficiently rigid to enable manual fracture of the frangible end portion. If the material is too flexible, deflection of the stem will not produce the desired result. On the other hand, if the material is excessively rigid and brittle, the possibility of an inadvertent fracture will exist, and compression of the body portion to promote flow would be precluded due to the likelihood of cracking, or simply because excess force is required. A variety of synthetic resinous materials may be utilized, the selection of which will be evident to those skilled in the art. The resin must have a sufficiently low melt viscosity to permit coverage of all mold surfaces, and it must produce a nonporous and pinhole-free structure. The polymer will normally be a thermoplastic, and exemplary materials include polypropylene, high density polyethylene, rigid polyvinyl chloride and nylon.

The tongue member of the applicator tip will preferably be elongated to facilitate attachment thereof to the absorbent member8. However, it is not essential that the tongue member18be of any specific shape and, for example, may be rectangular or cylindrical. Regardless of the shape of tongue member18, it is essential that suitable reinforcing ribs, as described hereinabove, be included to prevent unintentional breaking or separation of frangible portion19. Moreover, the shape of tongue member18will dictate the shape of the orifice formed in applicator tip15where the tongue member18is fractured for fluid release. Accordingly, the flow rate and overall amount of fluid applied to an application surface by dispensing applicator1is a function of several factors, including the shape and strength of tongue member18(and the resulting orifice), the porosity of absorbent member8, the density of the fluid, and the force employed by the user when breaking frangible portion19and pressing absorbent member8against the application surface. Determining the optimal flow rate for a given application is well within the ability of one skilled in the art and, therefore, will not be elaborated upon herein.

As stated above, the porous member may be made of any suitable material(s), most notably open cell, soft, and pliant sponge-like foam, that may be, for example, a polyurethane composition. The choice of material will depend largely upon the particular application and the characteristics of tongue member18and the fluid held in source body10.

In its normal form, source body10will be of circular cross-section. However, other shapes are also believed to be feasible. The source body10may have a square, triangular, or rectangular cross-section, and the shape may indeed be asymmetrical in cross section and of dissimilar shapes at different points along its length. It will be appreciated therefore that, as used herein the term “diameter” is to be construed in a broad sense, so as to be applicable to non-circular elements corresponding to those shown, and to refer to the maximum cross-sectional dimension of the element. Although normally completely hollow, the source body10may include appropriate reinforcement elements, such as internal support pillars, to provide adequate overall strength and rigidity, while permitting the source body10to have a thinner than would otherwise be possible. Likewise, source body10may include a solid portion, for example, to be gripped while breaking frangible portion19, so that source body10will not be prematurely compressed or squeezed, which might result in too much fluid flowing too quickly into absorbent member8.

As shown inFIGS. 3B and 3C, breaking frangible juncture19will result in the formation of one or more apertures12through which fluid from source body10may flow into absorbent member8(not shown, but fluid flow is shown from apertures12), such that tongue portion18may remain flexibly fixed to frangible juncture member19and is preferably prohibited from separation. In other words, fracture of the region proximate apertures is required, but tongue portion18remains flexibly joined along a binge line and is strengthened by rib members31, as will be discussed.

In its most preferable form, all portions of the source body10will have a wall thickness that is substantially uniform at a value of about 0.005 inch to about 0.025 inch (about 0.127 mm to about 0.635 mm), but may become thinner proximate regions12to urge ready fracture. The source body10is preferably made of polypropylene having a density of 0.897 g/cm2and a flexural modulus of about 150 Kpsi (about 1035 MPa), as determined by ASTM method 790B. The source body10is preferably about 6 inches to about 10 inches in overall length, and about 0.25 to about 1.0 inches in diameter, so as to be convenient to grasp and still contain sufficient fluid for a single application.

The applicator tip15is about 1 to 3 inches long, and about 0.325 inches in diameter. The frangible juncture19will preferably have a thickness of about 0.0005 inch to about 0.002 inch (about 0.013 mm to about 0.050 mm). The one or more apertures12, which are produced by the fracture of frangible juncture19, but not the separation of tongue member18, may be of any suitable size, but preferably have a width and height that is substantially correlated to the width and thickness of large ribs31,32(seeFIG. 3).

Referring toFIGS. 3A and 3C, tongue member18preferably comprises a plurality of reinforcing ribs31,32. Due to the reinforcing ribs and the resultant rigidity of tongue member18, there will be reduced flex along the length of tongue18, and an applied force on tongue member18will be effectively entirely transferred to and concentrated at frangible juncture19proximate apertures12. The result will be the reliable fracturing of frangible juncture19proximate apertures12, which fracturing results in the formation of one or more apertures12of suitable size on the same side as the force application to permit the fluid within the fluid source body10to be discharged therefrom and distributed across a predetermined area of absorbent application member8(FIG. 1). As noted above, it will generally be desirable for the material forming fluid source body10to be sufficiently thin to permit some compression of fluid source body10, so as to enable discharge of a liquid therein at a faster rate than would otherwise occur, and/or to promote the flow of the fluid, especially if the fluid is relatively viscous. While in a first use apertures12may only fracture along a portion of the aperture directing fluid flow along one side (the force application side) if force is directed in the opposite direction, apertures12will fracture along their remaining region, retaining tongue member18only by the flexible hinge between apertures12and strengthening ribs31.

FIG. 4Aillustrates a first arrangement of ribs for a tongue18a. As shown, tongue18ais rectilinear in shape with a bottom edge40a, a top edge41a, and side edges42a,43a. Bottom edge40ais substantially linear with a central point45aand corners46a,47aat which the proximate ends of respective side edge42a,43ameet. Top edge41ais curvilinear with an apex48aand corners49a,50aat which the distal ends of respect side edges42a,43aterminate. Central point45aand apex48alie along central axis c. The distance between central point45aand apex48ais the length of tongue18a, while the distance between corners49a,50ais the width of tongue18a. The thickness51aof tongue18ais the distance between the top and bottom surfaces thereof. Side edges42a,43aeach have a respective large rib31a,30aextending along the entire length thereof. It is notable that tongue18aextends a distance beyond the length of the large ribs31a,30ato apex48a, whereby top edge41ais not reinforced. Ribs31a,30aare each about 3 times the thickness of tongue18aand about ⅕ththe width of tongue18a. Small ribs32are disposed directly adjacent to their respective large rib31a,30aon the side thereof that is proximate to central axis c. Each small rib32extends from bottom edge40afor a distance that is about 3/10ththe length of the large ribs31a,32a. Each small rib32is about 2 times the thickness of tongue18aand about 1/10ththe width of tongue18a.

FIG. 4Billustrates a second arrangement of ribs for a tongue18b. As shown, tongue18bis rectilinear in shape with a bottom edge40b, a top edge41b, and side edges42b,43b. Bottom edge40bis substantially linear with a central point45band corners46b,47bat which the proximate ends of respective side edge42b,43bmeet. Top edge41bis curvilinear with an apex48band corners49b,50bat which the distal ends of respect side edges42b,43bterminate. Central point45band apex48blie along central axis c (seeFIGS. 2,4A). The distance between central point45band apex48bis the length of tongue18b, while the distance between corners49b,50bis the width of tongue18b. The thickness51bof tongue18bis the distance between the top and bottom surfaces thereof. Side edges42b,43beach has a respective large rib31b,32bextending along the entire length thereof. Large ribs31bare each about 3 times the thickness of tongue18band about ⅕ththe width of tongue18b. Small half-ribs33b,34bare disposed directly adjacent to their respective large ribs31bon the sides thereof that are proximate to central axis c. A small rib35bis disposed along central axis c. Each small half-rib33b,34bextends from bottom edge40ba distance that is about 3/10 the length of the large ribs31b. Each small half-rib33b,34bis about 2 times the thickness of tongue18band about 1/20ththe width of tongue18b. The small rib35bextends from bottom edge40ba distance that is about 3/10 the length of the large ribs31b. The small rib35bis about 2 times the thickness of tongue18band about 1/10ththe width of tongue18b.

FIG. 4Cillustrates a third arrangement of ribs for a tongue18c. As shown, tongue18cis rectilinear in shape with a bottom edge40c, a top edge41c, and side edges42c,43c. Bottom edge40cis substantially linear with a central point45cand corners46c,47cat which the proximate ends of respective side edge42c,43cmeet. Top edge41cis curvilinear with an apex48cand corners49c,50cat which the distal ends of respect side edges42c,43cterminate. Central point45cand apex48clie along central axis c (seeFIGS. 2,4A). The distance between central point45cand apex48cis the length of tongue18c, while the distance between corners49c,50cis the width of tongue18c. The thickness51eof tongue18cis the distance between the top and bottom surfaces thereof. Side edges42c,43ceach has a respective large rib31c,32cextending along the entire length thereof. Large ribs31c,32care each about 3 times the thickness of tongue18cand about ⅕ththe width of tongue18c. A small rib35cis disposed along central axis c. The small rib35cextends from bottom edge40ca distance that is about 3/10 the length of the large ribs31. The small rib35cis about 2 times the thickness of tongue18cand about 1/10ththe width of tongue18c.

Thickness51cof the tongue18cis the distance between the top and bottom surfaces thereof.

FIG. 4Dillustrates a fourth arrangement of ribs for a tongue18d. As shown, tongue18dis rectilinear in shape with a bottom edge40d, a top edge41d, and side edges42d,43d. Bottom edge40dis substantially linear with a central point45dand corners46d,47dat which the proximate ends of respective side edge42d,43dmeet. Top edge41dis curvilinear with an apex48dand corners49d,50dat which the distal ends of respect side edges42d,43dterminate. Central point45dand apex48dboth lie along central axis c (seeFIGS. 2,4A). The distance between central point45dand apex48dis the length of tongue18d, while the distance between corners49d,50dis the width of tongue18d. The thickness51dof tongue18dis the distance between the top and bottom surfaces thereof. Side edges42d,43deach has a respective large rib31d,32dextending along the entire length thereof. Large ribs31d,32dare each about 3 times the thickness of tongue18dand about ⅕ththe width of tongue18d. Spaced apart from each large rib31d,32dis a respective small rib33d,34d. The small ribs33d,34dare preferably, but not necessarily, spaced apart from each other and evenly spaced from central axis c. The small ribs33d,34dare closer to central axis c than to their respective large ribs31d,32d. The small ribs33d,34dextend from bottom edge40ba distance that is about 3/10 the length of the large ribs31d,32d. The small ribs33d,34dare about 2 times the thickness of tongue18band about 1/10ththe width of tongue18b. Each small rib33d,34dis preferably spaced apart from the central axis c by a distance that is approximately equal to its respective width. The small ribs33d,34dare spaced apart from each other by a distance that is approximately equal to 2 times the width of either small rib33dor34d. Each small rib33d,34dis preferably spaced apart from its respective large rib31d,32dby a distance that is approximately equal to 2 times its respective width, but other distances may be utilized.

FIGS. 5A and 5Billustrate a second dispensing applicator100according to the present invention. Dispensing applicator100comprises an applicator head108, a source of fluid, which is shown as a hollow, generally cylindrical body110, and an applicator tip115, which has an attachment member117and tongue member118joined thereto by a tapered frangible juncture member119having fracture sites as noted above at12(seeFIG. 3C). Fluid source body110and applicator tip115are respectively identical in form and function to fluid source body10and applicator tip15described hereinabove in reference toFIGS. 1 through 4D.

In addition, dispensing applicator member100is provided with an absorbent swab member201, and an inwardly projecting ridge-shaped member215provided within body110. A portion of body110is adapted to hold and/or support absorbent applicator member105. As shown, absorbent applicator member105is held and supported on a surface106. Surface106is provided with at least one aperture107, such that the fluid may flow from the interior of body110into absorbent applicator member105, as discussed in further detail herein below. Furthermore, a portion of body110is adapted to hold and/or support absorbent swab member210.

As shown, absorbent swab member210is held and supported on a surface203that is connected to body110by a stock member204. Absorbent swab member210is preferably not in fluid communication with the interior of body110. Outer surface201of absorbent applicator member105is oriented relative to body200such that, when absorbent applicator member105is substantially parallel to an application surface (i.e., in contact with the application surface), the central axis c of body110forms an angle of about 45° with the application surface, which angle provides a comfortable grip for the user and facilitates the flow of fluid through the interior of body110into absorbent application member105. Similarly, absorbent applicator member105of absorbent swab member210is oriented relative to body200, such that, when absorbent swab member210is substantially parallel to an application surface (i.e., in contact with the application surface), the central axis c of body200forms an angle of about 30° with the application surface, which angle provides a comfortable grip for the user and allows the user to spread the applied fluid over a relatively large area with relatively less arm movement and/or extension.

The manner of utilizing dispensing applicator100involves holding the dispensing applicator100with the absorbent application member105against an application surface. Downward pressure of applicator100against the application surface will displace head108upwardly and force ridge-shaped member215into contact with tongue member118. Sufficient upward pressure of ridge-shaped member215against tongue member118will upwardly deflect the tongue member118from the central axis c of the fluid source body110. At a predetermined amount of deflection, the frangible juncture119will fracture or break at apertures12(seeFIG. 3C), but not along the entire hinge region or at strengthening ribs (not shown) preventing unintended separation. Fracture of the frangible juncture119will desirably be achieved by the application of approximately 0.25 to 5 pounds of downward force of applicator100against the application surface. Breaking frangible juncture119will result fluid from fluid source body110flowing into head108via apertures12(not shown, but noted inFIGS. 3A-3C). Comparable to breaking frangible region19of applicator tip15, as discussed herein above in reference toFIGS. 3A to 3C, breaking frangible region119of applicator tip115results in the formation of one or more apertures in applicator tip115through which fluid from source body110may flow into head108without the unintended separation of the tip member115. Thus, in general, applicator tip15is comparable in form and structure to applicator tip115.

Absorbent swab member210may be employed for a variety of purposes. Swab210may be used to spread a fluid over the application surface after the application member105initially applies the fluid. Using swab210in this way would be particularly advantageous if the amount of fluid that is desired to cover a relatively large surface area has been inadvertently applied to a relatively small area, which may occur if application member105becomes over-saturated with fluid and can no longer effectively regulate the flow rate and amount of fluid being applied. Moreover, swab member210may be used to soak up fluid on the application surface, for example, when an excess of fluid has been applied or the fluid has been applied over the wrong area.

As stated above, absorbent swab member210is preferably not in fluid communication with the interior of body200. However, a possible use for swab210is applying fluid to a second surface area that is separate and apart from the surface area over which used absorbent application member105. In the critical interest of avoiding cross-contamination, it is desirable to use the application member105over only a single contiguous surface area that should be relatively limited (e.g., the upper front of the torso, instead of the entire front of the torso). Accordingly, after an initial application, any additional fluid in a given dispensing applicator may go wastefully unutilized. Therefore, in another embodiment of absorbent applicator head108, there is provided at least one aperture (not shown) in surface203, such that fluid may flow from the interior of body200into absorbent swab member210.

Head108may be detachable from fluid body110. Fluid body110may contain an amount of fluid that is greater than is necessary for a given application. Accordingly, after an initial application, any additional fluid in a given dispensing applicator may go wastefully unutilized. Therefore, in another embodiment of applicator100, fluid body110is removably attached to head108so that head108may be disposed of separately from fluid body110. If fluid body110contains residual fluid after an initial application, other absorbent head may be attached to fluid body110, thereby allowing the residual fluid to be applied to another application surface.

Referring toFIG. 6, as stated above, it is desirous to avoid cross-contamination by using a given absorbent applicator over only a single contiguous, relatively limited, surface area. Yet, using a given absorbent application in such a manner will often result in an amount of fluid therein being wasted. Accordingly, a dispensing applicator according to the present invention, generally indicated as reference numeral300, may be provided with a relatively larger, multi-sided absorbent applicator member308, such that different sides thereof may be used on different surface areas.

Referring toFIG. 7, there is shown an applicator tip having a semi-permeable or non-permeable cover400substantially surrounding frangible juncture19. The purpose of cover400is to control the speed and direction of the dispersion of fluid in a surrounding absorbent member (not shown).

Preferably, a rearward edge401of cover400will be attached to applicator tip15. More preferably, rearward edge401will be fully sealed around applicator tip15without gaps or holes so that fluid may not flow rearward under edge401. If cover400is semi-permeable adjacent to rearward edge401, fluid may flow rearward through cover400, but preferably will not flow rearward under edge401given the more preferable fully sealed attachment thereof to applicator tip15. In contrast, a forward or distal edge402of cover400is preferably free and unattached to applicator tip15so that fluid may flow forward under cover400substantially without being impeded thereby.

Preferably, cover400is formed as a seamless, unitary cylindrical sleeve (e.g., having a circular, square, or rectangular cross-section). Nonetheless, cover400may be of any suitable shape and construction. Depending upon its intended function, cover400may be semi-permeable or impermeable to fluid. Cover400may be made of various materials, including natural and/or synthetic rubbers, thermoplastics (e.g., polyethylene), cellulosic materials or similar fibers (i.e., natural polymeric fibers), and metallic materials. Cover400may be a contiguous sheet, a mesh, a felt, or another suitable form, with or without reinforcing fibers and/or seams (i.e., “rip-stop” seams).

Preferably, cover400is pliable and flexible so that it does not impede deflection of tongue member18. In other words, it is preferable that cover400does not hinder the breaking of frangible juncture19.

However, surrounding frangible juncture19with a cover400having suitable thickness and/or stiffness will provide a level of reinforcement that prevents inadvertent breaking of frangible juncture19. Accordingly, by employing a suitable thick and/or stiff cover400, tongue member18may be provided without reinforcing ribs. Thus, employing cover400to reinforce frangible juncture19will advantageously simplify production of application tip15, since tongue member18may be molded as a simple flat extension.

Controlling a rate flow along directional arrow F of dispensing fluid is critical because a) over saturation of the absorbent member reduces the collecting capability of this member, and b) back flow of the delivered fluid from the distal end towards the proximal end of the absorbent member interferes with the physician's work. Accordingly,FIG. 8illustrates a further embodiment of the invention directed to a dispensing applicator350which is configured to prevent fluid from uncontrollably entering an attachment member354that is coupled to tip15. At least one, but preferably a multiplicity of capillary vessels352is provided within the attachment member. Being in fluid communication with a source body360, vessels352, by virtue of their cross-section, meter an amount of fluid penetrating into the absorbent member (not shown). Thus, a combination of the openings, which are formed as a result of breaking frangible region19and vessels352, effectively limits oversaturation of the absorbent member.

Still another embodiment of a dispensing applicator450is illustrated inFIG. 9. As shown, applicator450does not have a frangible structure or region. Instead, an attachment member452is provided with at least one or more capillary vessels454controllably traversed by fluid from fluid source464. Vessels454project into an applicator tip465while penetrating a proximal end of an absorbent member456. The cross-section of the vessels is selected to provide a metered delivery of fluid.

However, absorbent member456can still accumulate an excessive amount of fluid, which will eventually result in a backflow towards the proximal end of the absorbent member and subsequent voluntary evacuation of fluid via this end. To limit or minimize such a possibility, applicator450has a flow limiting component or cover458. Formed within absorbent member456and, preferably, sealed to the proximal end thereof, cover458is able to collect fluid flowing towards the proximal end of absorbent member456and, thus, prevents uncontrollable evacuation of accumulated fluid.

As illustrated, cover458is provided with a body having a pair of concave sides460whose free or distal ends are spaced from one another at a distance that defines an open exit/entrance for fluid. The bottom portions464of cover458extend complementary to converging flanks466of attachment member452. Stability of an applicator tip465is added by providing the distal end of attachment member452with a rib470. Note that cover458does not completely prevent backflow of fluid leaving a space within the absorbent member which is sufficient to amply, but not excessively, wet the surfaces of this member.

A further embodiment of dispensing applicator479is illustrated inFIGS. 10A and 10B. Applicator479has a frangible region19structured substantially similar to the like configured regions which are discussed in detail above. To prevent uncontrollable evacuation of fluid via a proximal end474of an absorbent member476, applicator479has a cover472functioning similarly to cover458ofFIG. 9. However, cover472is configured with a pair of rectilinear flanks478and a bottom portion480that extends parallel to a flat distal end of attachment member17. Cover472may also be cone-like.

The applicator479is formed by inserting cover472into and sealing it to the interior of absorbent member476. The bottom portion480lies preferably flush with the proximal end of the absorbent member and is sealingly attached to frangible region19.

Embodiments of a dispensing applicator490illustrated inFIGS. 11A and 11Bare conceptually close to the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 5A and 5Band include an applicator head492which is formed with an absorbent member494and a swab member496. The absorbent and swab members have a center axes A-A and B-B, respectively, which intersect one another forming an angle of about 80-100°.

The difference between the embodiment ofFIGS. 5A and 5Band the one inFIGS. 11A and 11Bincludes utilization of one or more capillary vessels498provided instead of the frangible region. While, swab member496ofFIG. 11Ais prevented from fluid communication with an interior of a fluid source body, swab member496ofFIG. 11Bis traversed by a capillary tube499and has an inner surface497in fluid communication with the interior via an opening495, for the reasons explained above in reference toFIGS. 5A and 5B.

Another embodiment of the dispenser is depicted inFIGS. 12-27. With reference to those Figures, dispensing applicator60comprises a mounting block66having a base piece61, a bottom side skirt part62to which is affixed an absorbent sponge type applicator63, and a stem piece64upstanding from base piece61. An absorbent swab65is carried at an adjacent side of the mounting block66, for which purpose the mounting block66includes a mounting bracket67(depicted to advantage inFIG. 18) receptive of a skirt piece68to which swab65is affixed.

Stem piece64is preferably a tubular component and its interior space is in communication with the interior space69of base piece61(seeFIG. 21), the last mentioned space outletting to absorbent applicator63so that a flow course in the mounting block66has inlet in the stem piece64and outlet at applicator63. An elongated fluid container70is attachable to the mounting block, an end of the container being received in stein piece64.

Referring in more detail toFIGS. 12-17, container70which is of tubular configuration is capped at a first end as at71. At a distal opposite end length, an attachment member72has a length portion, as at73, received inside the container; and, the length portion is affixed to the container as, for example, by heat sealing. The length portion has a flange80thereon and a continuing length portion73aconstituting a frangible section, this section transitions into a tongue element,74. The juncture of the tongue element74and the continuing length portion73adefines a weakened joinder location at which the fracture and at least partial separation of the tongue element from the frangible section will occur, enabling outletting of fluid from container70.

FIGS. 16 and 17depict one embodiment of a fracture anvil76. The fracture anvil has a cruciform passage77extending therethrough, as well as a number of fluid pass-through passages78for enabling fluid released on fracture to flow toward absorbent applicator63.

When the second opposite end of the container70is inserted into the stem piece64, the tongue element is aligned such that it will enter and locate in the cross passage part77aof cruciform passage77, the fracture anvil having been inserted in the bore72of the stem piece. The second opposite end of the container70is snap fit connected to the stem piece64. The arrangement is such that with flange80received in annular internal groove or slot154in the stem piece (seeFIG. 21), the tongue element74is properly positioned in cross passage part77afor effecting fracture.

External dimensioning of the annular flange80and internal groove154is such that the container70can be rotated relative to the fracture anvil while the fracture anvil is held. This approximately ninety degree rotation of the container is effective to twist the tongue element74at the weakened joinder location with length portion73a, fracturing it and effecting at least partial separation from length portion73a. With this fracture, fluid releases from the container into the mounting block through course.FIGS. 21,22andFIGS. 23,24show, respectively, pre and post-fracture orientations of length portion73a.

FIG. 25shows how fluid outlets the container in streams from apertures83at the fracture site of tongue element74and length portion73a, the apertures83being shown inFIG. 15as well.FIG. 26shows the pattern of fluid flow to and distributed throughout the absorbent applicator63, which distribution is promoted by the passages84formed in the applicator63.

FIG. 27illustrates the orientation of the dispenser60when, e.g., it is desired to swab a large patient area, spreading out the quantity of fluid applied to the patient with absorbent swab65.

FIG. 28depicts an embodiment of dispensing applicator60-2, which is identical with theFIG. 13applicator60except wherein fracture anvil76-1is embodied as a truncated cylinder. The anvil76-1shown in more detail inFIGS. 32 and 35is provided with a flat inclined top face132, and with a flat chord face177at the cylindrical periphery thereof and extending between top face132and a bottom face179. With the anvil76-1received in stem piece64as shown inFIGS. 35-37, flat chord face177is disposed spaced from the cylindrical inner surface of the stem piece64and therewith defines a flow channel along which fluid contents of container70can flow from interior space99of the stem piece64to the interior space69of base piece61.

Referring toFIGS. 35-37, explanation of fracturing for fluid flow (but not separation) of the frangible weakened joint at which the tongue element74is connected to the frangible length part73ais now given. The circular inner surface of the stem piece64is shouldered or provided with a stop as at139to hold the fracture anvil76-1(FIG. 32) in stopped position so it cannot move lower in the stem piece passage. When the applicator is to be used, a fluid container70will be inserted into the stem piece64, tongue element74first. The tip end of the tongue element74will in course of insertion travel strike against the inclined top face132of the fracture anvil76-1in consequence of which the tongue element64will be laterally displaced from the full line position thereof inFIG. 35to the position as shown inFIGS. 36 and 37. That displacement effects rupture (but not separation) of the tongue element at its joinder location with the frangible region and container fluid contents are released through orifices83(FIG. 15) into the stem piece interior space. It is specifically noted, that inFIG. 31the separation is shown only for purposes of visualizing the openings accessed by fracture of the frangible regions, and it will be recognized that the inner joining region of tongue member74remains firmly and securely attached to head member80, and is merely displaced allowing a fluid-flow access to the openings noted. Thus,FIG. 31is for illustrative purposes only and does not reflect a separation.

Additional fracture anvil embodiments are shown inFIGS. 33 and 34. In these embodiments, the truncated cylinder anvils76-2and76-3unlike fracture anvil76-1, retain their outer surface cylindrical envelopes. Like fracture anvil76-1, these anvils each have an inclined flat top face132and a flat bottom face179. To provide flow from the inclined top face to the flat bottom face side of the fracture anvils, gutter-like flow channels133are formed in the cylindrical periphery of each anvil, these flow channels133extending from the inclined top face132to the flat bottom face179. Fracture anvil76-2has one flow channel or relatively large cross section area, whereas, fracture anvil76-3has plural, i.e., three flow channels each of smaller cross section area but in total about the same as the cross section area of fracture anvil76-2. The flow channels133juxtapose with the inner encircling periphery of the stem piece and provide ample artery volume to insure proper fluid flow to the absorbent applicator63

An important consideration in the dispensing applicator is (a) complete filling of container70during manufacture to ensure maximum supply and (b) avoidance of contamination of the fluid contents in the container70both as to at initial filling of disinfectant and medicaments therein and as to post filling handling and storage until need to use. It will be recognized by those of skill in the art, that achieving (a) will eliminate air pockets prior to use that will impact contamination in (b). In this regard and with continuing reference toFIGS. 29 and 30, the container70of dispensing applicator60-2is provided at its first or filling end with a capping assembly240(as shown) that includes a closure cap241having a central disc part243and an axially directed peripheral skirt242encircling the outer surface of the container70at its first end. The first end tip part of container70has a radially inwardly directed annular flange244defining a central opening245(SeeFIG. 30) in the container tip end. A boss248projects axially from the inner face of central disc part243and with the cap in place on the container first end, the boss248will locate a distance through central opening245upon assembly. The capping assembly also includes a, e.g., foil material gasket250constructed from a suitable material which is used to intervene the inner side of the closure cap241and the first end face, i.e., the annular flange244outer face of the container70.

FIG. 30depicts the manner of container filling. A filling line252(shown as a tube) in the sterile filling operation environment delivers disinfectant or medicament fluid as discussed herein of any suitable kind through central opening245into the container until there is overflow of fluid at which point the filling is terminated. Gasket250is then set on top of the outer face of flange244, the gasket being of larger area expanse than flange244and makes liquid contact for sealing purposes. Further, gasket250is selected from materials which are liquid proof, stretchable or deformable to a certain degree so that when closure cap241is fitted over the first end of the container sandwiched between the closure cap inner face and the outer face of flange244, an air tight joint seal of the container is effected without a bubble, since the gasket material will conform to the sandwiching structure in intimate contact therewith.FIG. 29illustrates this clearly and employs a formed main tube body70having only smaller opening245. It is also to be noted fromFIG. 29that fluid fills the first end of the container70and is in air excluding contact with the gasket, and the apparent fluid gap inFIG. 29is employed only to show depth of the fluid and not the existence of an unfilled portion of the tube. This arrangement assures absence of any possible contaminants-containing air within the container. It is preferred that the closure cap241once in place be not removable from the container. This can be effected by sonic welding or other attachment means of the closure cap to the container and optionally of the foil closure itself. If it is thought expedient for any reason, the cap can be removably snap fitted to the container. For example, an annular groove in one of the structure inner skirt surface and outer surface of the container, and an annular bead on the other of said surfaces will allow removal the closure cap but only with deliberately intended such action.

Referring now additionally toFIGS. 38-40, an alternative construction is provided at a dispenser system500containing a head member501secured to a dispensing fluid container502and surrounded by a foam dispersing member503constructed in a manner previously discussed.

As earlier noted, flow shields and flow control devices may be particularly useful in preventing unintended fluid release, fluid spill back during application (from buildup within foam dispersing member503) etc.

Similarly, a flexible tip or tongue member505is joined with reinforcing members506a(shown in the first figure) joined to fracture member506on head member501so that the fracture about the stressed areas earlier noted (see for exampleFIG. 3Cat12, the discussion ofFIG. 5Aand the related discussions of flexible fracture upon movement of the tongue member while retaining and preventing separation of the tongue member) is directionally out the only side that fractures—that facing the application surface as seen by flows inFIG. 39. As a consequence, fluid flows510from the fracture or opening site may approach an application surface511upon actuation. What is additionally appreciated here, is that, dual surfaces of foam member503is substantially beneficial for the reasons noted above.

A flexible plastic card525is flexibly retained and fixed in foam applicator head503proximate fracture member506as shown. Card525is formed of a thin, flexible and fluid resistant (impermeable or semi-permeable) material (like a playing card), and includes preferably a plurality of peripheral protuberances or indentations526that engage the foam or sponge head to prevent lateral or longitudinal shifting relative to the fracture location for reasons that will be discussed. As will be appreciated, the protuberances526, spikes, detents or other structures or chemical means (such as glue about the perimeter) may be employed to minimize or prohibit shifting of card shield525during manufacture or use applications.

Card525includes a bounded opening or slot528that is approximately 0.25 inches to approximately 0.75 inches in height and sufficiently wide to span the full width of flexible member505and the connection with fracture member506so as to position itself as shown generally inFIG. 39.

As an adaptive embodiment the fluid exiting slot on the inferior side of the sponge extends almost the full width of card525for a speedy delivery of fluid while protecting the superior side of the sponge from unintended fluid dispersal or pooling. As noted earlier, during surgical preparation a sterile prep item may not be used again on the same patient following an initial removal as a consequence, the present embodiment minimizes loss or waste by preserving a second foam side or superior foam side for second use by the same applicator. As a consequence, as noted inFIG. 39fluid flow is to the inferior portion of the sponge and directly applies to the contact surface and flows between the contact surface511and the surface of card525for distribution without penetrating card525to translate to the superior portion of the sponge. This action retains the superior side of the sponge in a substantially or completely dry condition for later sterile use (which may be achieved by merely flipping the applicator over to the superior side and proceeding as discussed above and demonstrated in the figures.

Another alternative embodiment of the dispensing applicator in accordance with the present invention is depicted inFIGS. 41-44. With reference to those Figures,FIGS. 41A-Cshow different views of the alternative embodiment of a mounting block for a fluid dispensing applicator according to the invention which receives an absorbent applicator at a block bottom side. In particular, as shown, the dispensing applicator comprises a mounting block550having a base piece552, a bottom side skirt part to which is affixed an absorbent sponge type applicator (seeFIG. 43), and a stem piece554upstanding from base piece552. An absorbent swab may optionally be carried at an adjacent side of the mounting block550(seeFIGS. 5A-B,11A-B and12-13), for which purpose the mounting block550includes a mounting bracket (e.g., similar to that shown inFIG. 18) receptive of a skirt piece to which the absorbent swab is affixed. Optionally, mounting block550may include projections558to aid in rotating mounting block550about the axis of stem piece554as indicated by arrow556to cause fracture of (505/506, seeFIG. 40) while (505, seeFIG. 40) is positioned within fracture anvil560(seeFIG. 41C).

Stem piece554is preferably a tubular component and its interior space is in communication with the interior space of base piece552(seeFIG. 41B), the last mentioned space outletting to absorbent applicator548so that a flow course in the mounting block550has inlet in the stem piece554and outlet at applicator548. An elongated fluid container574(seeFIG. 43) is attachable to the mounting block550, an end of the container being received in stein piece554.

Referring in more detail toFIGS. 41A-Cand43-44, container574which is of tubular configuration is capped at a first end as at576. At a distal opposite end length, an attachment member568has a length portion received inside the container574, and the length portion being affixed to the container as, for example, by heat sealing or snap fit. The length portion optionally has a flange572thereon and a continuing length portion constituting a frangible section, this section transitions into a tongue element570. The juncture of the tongue element570and the continuing length portion defines a weakened joinder location at which the fracture and at least partial separation of the tongue element570from the frangible section will occur, enabling outletting of fluid from container574.

Referring now toFIG. 42A, shown is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a fracture anvil for being removably inserted in an applicator mounting block part of the applicator head, the fracture anvil having a partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage for reception of the fluid source container tongue element, the fracture anvil being employed to effect partial fracture of the frangible region-tongue element joinder on a relative rotatable movement between said container and said fracture anvil.FIG. 42Bshows a cross-section view of the fracture anvil taken on the line42B-42B ofFIG. 42A.

Turning toFIGS. 42A-B, depicted is yet another embodiment of a fracture anvil560for use with the dispensing applicator according to the invention. The fracture anvil560shown has a partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage562extending therethrough, as well as a number of fluid pass-through passages for enabling fluid released on fracture to flow toward absorbent applicator548.

When the second opposite end of the container574is inserted into the stem piece554, the tongue element570is aligned such that it will enter and locate in the vertical cross passage part of partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage562, the fracture anvil560having been inserted in the bore of the stem piece554. The second opposite end of the container574is snap fit connected to the stem piece554. The arrangement is such that with flange572received in annular internal groove in the stem piece (see e.g.,FIG. 21), the tongue element570is properly positioned in the vertical cross passage part for effecting fracture.

External dimensioning of the annular flange and internal groove is such that the container574can be rotated relative to the fracture anvil560while the fracture anvil560is held in position. This approximately forty-five degree rotation of the container574is effective to twist part of the tongue element570at the weakened joinder location, fracturing a portion of it and effecting at least partial separation from attachment member568. With this fracture, fluid releases from the container574into the mounting block550through course.

Referring next toFIG. 43, shown is an exploded left front side perspective view of still another embodiment of a dispensing applicator according to the invention wherein a fluid containing source574is receivably attachable to an applicator mounting body stem piece554in snap fit connection therewith. Initiation of fluid flow is then effectuated with a relative rotative movement, as indicated by arrow556, between the fluid source container574and a fracture anvil (seeFIG. 44) in the stem piece554of mounting block550.

Similar to the embodiment described with respect toFIG. 30, as shown inFIG. 43, the container574may be configured to be closed at a first end576by a closure cap584. An inner cap578is configured to be inserted into the container574at the first end576and may include an aperture580that may be covered by a gasket582, which is in turn covered by the cap584.

As seen inFIG. 44, depicted is a cross-section view taken on the line44-44inFIG. 43showing relative position of the tongue member within the partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage of the fracture anvil560. Rotation of the fracture anvil560(i.e., along or against directional arrow556) may be confined within a range corresponding to a spacing between stoppers561.

Referring next toFIG. 45, shown is an exploded left front side perspective view of still another embodiment of a dispensing applicator wherein a fluid containing source574is receivably attachable to an applicator mounting body588in snap fit connection therewith, initiation of fluid flow being effected with a relative rotative movement556between the fluid source container574and a fracture anvil560(seeFIG. 46) in the mounting body588, and further showing a dye packet assembly591having top and bottom diffusers596, which may include respective apertures592and595, and a dye tablet594. As shown best inFIGS. 49A and 49C, a diffuser596may include aperture592and may include concentric rings or channels formed by spaced cylindrical walls595which may receive fluid. The mounting body588may include an inclined face597including an opening598formed therein through which fluid may flow. An absorbent sponge590be configured to fit over or receive therein the inclined face597of the mounting body588.FIG. 45depicts an embodiment of dispensing applicator, which is similar with theFIG. 43applicator except wherein dye packet assembly591is provided in the mounting body588.

Referring next toFIG. 46, shown is a cross-section view taken on the line46-46of the applicator ofFIG. 45showing the partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage562of the fracture anvil560. When assembled, as shown inFIG. 47, the assembled dispensing applicator ofFIG. 45is closed at one end with cap584and at the other end with the removable attachment of fluid source574into mounting block554through rotatable connector586. As can be seen inFIG. 48, which shows a cross-section view of the assembled fluid dispensing applicator taken on the line48-48inFIG. 47, dispensing applicator comprises a mounting block554having a base piece552, which may be in fluid communication with fluid flowing the container574via one or more apertures599, a bottom side skirt part to which is affixed an absorbent sponge548and a stem piece. Optionally, (not shown here, but seeFIG. 12), an absorbent swab may be carried at an adjacent side of the mounting block, for which purpose the mounting block includes a mounting bracket (depicted to advantage inFIG. 18) receptive of a skirt piece to which swab is affixed.

Stem piece is preferably a tubular component and its interior space is in communication with the interior space of base piece (see e.g.FIG. 21), the last mentioned space outletting to absorbent applicator so that a flow course in the mounting block has inlet in the stem piece and outlet at applicator. An elongated fluid container574is attachable to the mounting block, an end of the container being received in stem piece.

Referring next toFIGS. 49A-C, shown are, respectively, enlarged perspective, bottom and cross-section (taken along line49C-49C ofFIG. 49B) views of a preferred embodiment of a diffuser element596for the dye packet assembly591.

Turning next toFIGS. 50-51, shown is an exploded left front side perspective view and a cross-sectional view (taken along line51-51inFIG. 50), respectively, of still another embodiment of a dispensing applicator according to the invention wherein a fluid containing source606is receivably attachable to an applicator mounting body stem piece604in snap fit connection therewith, initiation of fluid flow being effected with a relative rotative movement (as indicated by arrow620) between the fluid source container606and a fracture anvil631in the mounting body602by, for example, breaking the frangible tongue member618. The mounting body602may include an inclined face626that may include an aperture624through which fluid may move. An absorbent sponge600may receive the inclined face626of the mounting body602to cover the inclined face626. Effecting the rotative movement may be facilitated via projections622.FIGS. 52-53depict a side perspective view and cross-section view (line53-53inFIG. 52), respectively, of the assembled fluid dispensing applicator shown inFIG. 50. Also, as shown inFIGS. 50-51, the mounting body602may include projections622to facilitate rotating the mounting body602along or against directional arrow620. The mounting body602may include inclined faces626that may include apertures624through which fluid may flow. An absorbent sponge600may receive the inclined faces626of the mounting body602therein such that the inclined faces626are covered by the sponge600. As shown inFIG. 51, the fracture anvil602ama include a passage628which tongue618may be disposed, as well as stops630which may permit relative rotation of the fracture anvil602awithin a predetermined range of rotation.

Turning now toFIGS. 54A-D, shown is still another alternative embodiment of an assembled dispensing applicator wherein a fluid containing source is receivably attachable to an applicator mounting body stem piece in snap fit connection therewith, initiation of fluid flow being effected with a relative downward movement between the fluid source container and a fracture member in the mounting body.FIG. 54Bis an exploded left front side perspective view of the dispensing applicator shown inFIG. 54Awherein a fluid containing source702is receivably attachable to an applicator mounting body stem piece710, which may include a length portion706that may include a frangible tongue element704, and may be in snap fit connection therewith, initiation of fluid flow being effected with a relative downward movement between the fluid source container and a fracture member in the mounting body. A cover708may be threadably coupled to the body stem piece710. An absorbent sponge member700may be removably or permanently affixed to an exterior of the tongue704and/or the length portion706. The length portion706may include a channel712in which a portion of the tongue704is received. Apertures716(as shown inFIGS. 56C and 57) may be disposed between the length portion706and the tongue706and may be exposed upon breaking or separating the tongue704away from the length portion706.FIG. 54Cis a side cross-section view of the assembled dispensing applicator ofFIG. 54Ataken on the line54C-54C, andFIG. 54Dis a front cross-section view of the assembled dispensing applicator ofFIG. 54Ataken on the line54D-54D.

FIGS. 55-57depict various views of an embodiment of a fluid dispersing head for use with the fluid dispensing applicator according to the invention. In particular,FIGS. 56C-D, which are cross-sectional views of the fluid dispersing head ofFIG. 55taken on the line56C-56C inFIG. 56Aand line56D-56D inFIG. 56B, further show the relative position of an applicator tip member and fracture member within the fluid dispersing head.

Similarly,FIG. 58A-Edepict various views of an alternative embodiment of an applicator mounting block750according to the invention having inclined faces752and having an opening758on one of the faces754, which may include a stepped or jagged edge surface752. side for The opening758is configured to facilitate dispersing of fluid to only one side of a fluid dispensing head. In particular,FIG. 58Bshows no opening for dispersing fluid to the fluid dispersing head, whileFIG. 58D, which shows another side of the applicator mounting block750, depicts an opening758for dispersing of fluid to the fluid dispersing head. Of course, opening could be positioned on either side or even both sides of the applicator head. Lastly,FIG. 58Eshows a bottom end view of the applicator mounting block750ofFIGS. 58A-Dand depicts the inclusion of the partial cruciform768, partial semi-circular fracture anvil discussed in detail above. Stopping members766may inhibit relative rotation of the fracture anvil762beyond a predetermined range corresponding to the spacing between the stopping members766. Protrusions760may be grasped by a user to facilitate such rotation along or against directional arrow764.

While the present invention is primarily directed to a dispensing applicator for the application of liquids to the surface of the head, limbs, and/or body for medical purposes (i.e., pre-surgical disinfection), dispensing applicators according to the present invention may be used in a wide variety of purposes and environments. For example, a dispensing applicator according to the present invention can be used for application of lubricant(s) or adhesive(s). The range of sizes can also vary widely, as long as the several wall thicknesses are controlled appropriately to afford the desired functional characteristics discussed herein. It should also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that the fluid reservoirs, in selected embodiments, are flexibly bounded and allow an operator to control volumetric application based on the amount of pressure applied to the exterior of the reservoir. As a consequence of this design, it should also be recognized by those of skill in the art, that an operator releasing a compressed reservoirs, may partially suction released fluid back into the reservoir and minimize pooling.

In the claims, means- or step-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described or suggested herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Thus, for example, although a nail, a screw, and a bolt may not be structural equivalents in that a nail relies on friction between a wooden part and a cylindrical surface, a screw's helical surface positively engages the wooden part, and a bolt's head and nut compress opposite sides of a wooden part, in the environment of fastening wooden parts, a nail, a screw, and a bolt may be readily understood by those skilled in the art as equivalent structures.