Abstract:
Liquid dispensing applicators adapted to be mounted to a container of lubricating oil or degreaser and used to lubricate or apply degreaser to a drive chain of a bicycle or motorcycle are disclosed. The applicator housing has an open slot to receive the chain. A wear-resistant and absorbent pad is positioned within the housing to engage the chain. A conduit between the absorbent pad and the container transmits liquid to the absorbent pad such that the chain can be cleaned or lubricated.

Description:
[0001]    This application claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/695,874 filed on Aug. 31, 2012, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
     FIELD 
       [0002]    The present disclosure relates generally to apparatus and methods for applying lubricant and/or cleaning solvent to a drive train such as a drive chain for a bicycle or a motorcycle. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    Part of the regular maintenance of a bicycle or motorcycle includes periodically applying a lubricant to the drive chain. A common way of accomplishing this is to place a lubricant drip-container with its discharge opening above the chain, and then to move the chain along its normal path of travel while the lubricant is dispensed from the container directly onto the chain. One of the problems with this standard practice is that it is difficult to apply the lubricant uniformly to each chain link above the bushings, where the lubricant is needed. Another drawback is that a portion of the lubricant tends to pass through the chain and drop on the floor below, or onto parts of the bicycle, such as the rear wheel or tire. Yet another drawback with using lubricant drip-containers is the time it takes to lubricate each link in the chain. A second common way of lubricating a drive chain is to spray lubricant through a tube connected to an aerosol dispenser and applying the contents onto the chain while the chain is moved along its normal path of travel. This latter standard practice is easier and faster than drip-container application, but results in overspray of the lubricant onto the vehicle frame and wheels. 
         [0004]    The majority of prior art drive chain lubricant applicators purport to both clean the chain and lubricate it. Some of these applicators use an oil reservoir that the chain is directed through, and the oil serves as both a cleaning solvent and a lubricant, resulting in the use and contamination of much more oil than is actually needed to lubricate the chain. Other cleaning/lubricant applicators use brushes without oil reservoirs, which may dislodge contaminants but may not remove them. High manufacturing cost is a major disadvantage of the majority of existing lubricant applicators claiming to both clean and lubricate the chain. These applicators include many intricate parts that must be assembled prior to use. The large number of parts and the concomitant assembly requirements substantially increase manufacturing costs. 
         [0005]    Several examples of drive chain lubricant applicators disclosed in the art and problems associated with these drive chain lubricant applicators are provided as follows. 
         [0006]    Thalmann (U.S. Pat. No. 4,593,923) discloses a reservoir that is attached to a bicycle such that as the sprocket chain advances, it passes through the reservoir, which contains a solvent as well as brushes to clean the chain. Chiarelli (U.S. Pat. No. 4,578,120) provides a sprocket chain cleaner in which the reservoir is provided with rotary brushes that are turned by the sprocket chain, wherein the reservoir contains either a solvent or a lubricant. Pesl (U.S. Pat. No. 5,213,180) describes an apparatus for cleaning and lubricating drive chains, in particular motorcycle drive chains, that includes brushes attached in a two-piece housing that must be assembled around the drive chain and secured to the motorcycle. The practical drawbacks to the Thalmann, Chiarelli, and Pesl schemes is that all require attachment to the motorcycle or bicycle, hence each time the applicator is put to use it must be bolted or otherwise secured to the vehicle and then later detached therefrom. These devices also have a large number of parts, which therefore increases their manufacturing costs. The Chiarelli scheme uses more lubricant than is actually needed to lubricate the chain, which emerges wet, thereby allowing dirty solvent and/or lubricant to drip on surfaces near the vehicle. 
         [0007]    Barbieri (U.S. Pat. No. 6,942,409) describes a bicycle chain cleaner with several rotary brushes: one each in a two-piece, hinged housing that encloses the drive chain and attaches to an aerosol dispenser. Manning (U.S. Pat. No. 4,783,186) describes a sprocket chain cleaner that uses opposing brushes formed by strong, flexible bristles, such as nylon bristles, capable of forcefully scrubbing the advancing sprocket chain. Hoenselaar (U.S. Pat. No. 5,020,637) discloses a lubricant applicator that is an open ring fitted to an aerosol dispenser with three brushes, spaced apart from one another inside the ring at an angular distance of approximately one-third of a circle. Practical drawbacks to the Barbieri, Manning, and Hoenselaar schemes include multiple parts, brushes that must be cleaned periodically, and their practical use is limited to aerosol dispensed lubricants. 
         [0008]    Masonek (U.S. Pat. No. 5,213,180) is a lubricant applicator for a drive chain having a housing with interior flexible plastic bristles. The Masonek apparatus must be secured around the sprocket chain and secured to the vehicle frame, requiring assembly and disassembly as well as periodic cleaning of the plastic bristles. 
         [0009]    Other liquid applicators are disclosed in the following documents. Hinsdale (U.S. Pat. No. 1,021,522) is a dispensing applicator for free-flowing liquid comprising a container and a cup with a liquid-tight container seal opposite the cup, and a permanently-mounted sponge in the cup, that is in communication with the interior of the container. Rigney (U.S. Pat. No. 2,820,234) is a dishwashing tool having a flexible container with a valve-closure that includes an adhesive-mounted sponge that absorbs detergent as the container is compressed in the hand of the user. Gilchrist et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 3,148,401) and Kohler (U.S. Pat. No. 4,201,491) disclose a liquid applicator with an adhesive-mounted sponge that is particularly applicable to applying shoe polish. Practical drawback to the Hinsdale, Rigney and Gilchrist applicators, when used for applying cleaning solvent and lubricant to drive chains, are accelerated wear due to drive chain abrasion as the chain moves across the sponge, and sponges that cannot be replaced when worn or clogged. Yager et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 5,597,255), Chow et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 4,961,662), Hobbs (U.S. Pat. No. 4,008,968), and Van Esley (U.S. Pat. No. 2,742,660) disclose liquid applicators having replaceable sponges with laminated molded-plastic backing parts. The laminated backing adds to the manufacturing cost of the replaceable part because an additional part, and assembly of the two parts, is required. 
         [0010]    The usual method of applying the lubricant is a direct manual operation of discharging the lubricant from the container directly onto the chain. There is a long-felt need for a low-cost chain lubricant applicator that facilitates the usual method for applying lubricant directly to the chain, but with application improvements that include ease-of-use, accuracy and speed, and that also prevents dripping, overspray, and the need for tool clean-up or disassembly. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0011]    The lubricant applicators provided by the present disclosure can be adapted for use in conjunction with a lubricant dispensing container for applying the lubricant to a drive chain, such as a drive chain for a bicycle or motorcycle, also referred to herein as a roller chain. In certain embodiments, applicators include the combination of such applicators with the lubricant dispensing container. The terms fluid or liquid are also used herein to refer to a lubricant, degreaser, or other solvent intended to be applied to a drive chain. 
         [0012]    The lubricant applicators comprise a peripheral housing defining an open lubrication area to receive and guide a drive chain. In certain embodiments, the housing is a single, injection-molded plastic part. A wear-resistant and absorbent pad, that holds lubricant and is configured to engage a drive chain, is mounted to the housing surface having perpendicular chain guide surfaces, and an opening in communication with the liquid contents of the dispensing container. 
         [0013]    In an embodiment of this disclosure, the integral mounting member of the housing is a spout adapted to replace the flip-top spout that is integral to, yet a separate part of, a readily available flip-top container closure so as to mount the applicator to the container, and to prevent the free flow of liquid from the container when the applicator is rotated to shut the closure. A conduit through the housing provides a lubricant discharge path between the dispensing container and the absorbent pad. In this embodiment, the discharge hole is positioned in the middle of the absorbent pad, whereby the lubricant is discharged into the pad to then be applied to the drive chain which is being lubricated. 
         [0014]    In another embodiment of this disclosure, the peripheral housing of the applicator and the container closure are integral features of the same part. This embodiment has a valve or a flexible control membrane with a compressible opening such as a slit over the open end of the container that controls the flow of fluid from the container. 
         [0015]    In certain embodiments, the fluid transfer pad is held in place by undercuts in the peripheral sidewalls of the housing that also serve to guide the drive chain and by ribs on each open end that receives the drive chain. 
         [0016]    The housing can be characterized by a lengthwise dimension parallel to the lengthwise axis of the chain when the drive chain is positioned in the lubricating area of the housing. The lengthwise dimension of the housing is sufficient so that the housing sidewalls can provide adequate chain guidance, without causing the chain to bind, while passing through the applicator, if the housing is twisted relative to the lengthwise axis of the chain. The length and width of the housing are sufficient to provide for an absorbent pad that is large enough to contain a variable amount of lubricant while tending to prevent dripping of lubricant from the pad. The width of the housing is sufficient to provide adequate clearance for a variety of drive chain widths. 
         [0017]    In certain embodiments of the disclosure, the container to which the applicator is connected is a flexible plastic bottle with a modified flip spout dispenser closure. The applicator replaces the flip spout of the dispenser closure with its lubricant dispensing surface perpendicular to the axis of the bottle. In another embodiment, the applicator is integral to the container closure. In another embodiment the container to which the applicator is connected is a flexible plastic bottle with a modified push/pull valve dispenser closure. The applicator replaces the valve cap of the dispenser closure with its lubricant dispensing surface perpendicular to the axis of the bottle. In another embodiment the applicator is integral to the container closure. The applicator with an attached bottle are positioned to engage the top of the chain, and while the chain is moved through the applicator, the bottle is gently squeezed to disperse lubricant onto the absorbent pad, thereby lubricating the drive chain. 
         [0018]    In another embodiment of this disclosure, the container to which the applicator is connected is an aerosol can. The applicator with a connected aerosol can is positioned to engage the chain, and while the chain is moved through the applicator, the nozzle is occasionally depressed to disperse lubricant onto the absorbent pad, thereby lubricating the drive chain. 
         [0019]    In certain embodiments, the absorbent pad is made from spun polypropylene fiber having sufficient rigidity to remain firmly mounted to the housing yet permit easy replacement when worn or clogged. The pad can also be made from a relatively rigid open cell foam material. 
         [0020]    Other features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0021]      FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of a drive chain lubricant applicator and dispensing container, shown with a partial drive chain, in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0022]      FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of a drive chain lubricant applicator and dispensing container, shown with a partial drive chain, in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0023]      FIG. 3  and  FIG. 4  show perspective views of a flexible, plastic dispensing container having a flip top closure, with and without the snap-together spout part, respectively, in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0024]      FIG. 5  shows a cross-sectional front view taken along section  5 - 5  of  FIG. 2 , showing a drive chain lubricant applicator and dispensing container, with a partial drive chain, in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0025]      FIG. 6  shows a top view of a drive chain lubricant applicator, in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0026]      FIG. 7  shows a cross-sectional front view taken along section  7 - 7  of  FIG. 6 , showing a drive chain lubricant applicator, in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0027]      FIG. 8  shows a side view of a drive chain lubricant applicator, in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0028]      FIG. 9  shows a bottom view of a drive chain lubricant applicator, in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0029]      FIG. 10  shows an inverted cross-sectional side view taken along section  10 - 10  of  FIG. 2 , showing a drive chain lubricant applicator and dispensing container, with the applicator having a pivoting member and in an open position, in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0030]      FIG. 11  shows an inverted cross-sectional view offset from section  10 - 10  of  FIG. 2 , showing a drive chain lubricant applicator and dispensing container, with the applicator having a pivoting member and in a closed position, in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0031]      FIG. 12  shows the applicator of  FIG. 10  having a pivoting member and in a closed position, in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0032]      FIG. 13  shows a cross-sectional front view of the drive chain lubricant applicator shown in  FIG. 1 , showing a drive chain lubricant applicator and dispensing container in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0033]      FIG. 14  shows a perspective view of a drive chain lubricant applicator and dispensing container, shown in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0034]      FIG. 15  shows a cross-sectional front view of the drive chain lubricant applicator shown in  FIG. 14 , showing a drive chain lubricant applicator and dispensing container in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0035]      FIG. 16  shows a perspective view of a drive chain lubricant applicator and dispensing container, in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0036]      FIG. 17  shows a cross-sectional front view of the drive chain lubricant applicator shown in  FIG. 16 , showing a drive chain lubricant applicator and dispensing container in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0037]      FIG. 18  shows a perspective view of a drive chain lubricant applicator and dispensing container, in accordance with certain spray can embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0038]      FIG. 19  shows a perspective view of a drive chain lubricant applicator and dispensing container, shown in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0039]      FIG. 20  shows a perspective view of a flexible, plastic dispensing container having a push/pull valve closure, shown without the valve cap, in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure. 
           [0040]      FIG. 21  shows a detail cross-sectional front view of the drive chain lubrication applicator of  FIG. 19  showing a drive chain lubrication applicator and dispensing container in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure, showing the valve in a closed position. 
           [0041]      FIG. 22  shows a detail cross-sectional front view of the drive chain lubricant applicator of  FIG. 19  showing a drive chain lubricant applicator and dispensing container in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure, showing the valve in an open position. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0042]    Lubricant applicators provided by the present disclosure may be configured to be used with squeeze-type lubricant containers, spray-type lubricant containers, push/pull-type lubricant dispensers, or other lubricant containers. 
         [0043]    Squeeze-type lubricant containers typically include a discharge spout having an opening through which lubricant flows when the body of the container is squeezed. The discharge spout is typically connected to the cap of the lubricant container by means of a pivot or a cylindrical member with an undercut on the inside diameter, both of which are press-fit onto the cap. 
         [0044]    Certain embodiments of lubricant applicators provided by the present disclosure are configured to mechanically and fluidly connect to the discharge spout of a squeeze-type lubricant container. Such embodiments are shown, for example, in  FIG. 2 . 
         [0045]    Certain embodiments of lubricant applicators provided by the present disclosure are configured to mechanically and fluidly connect to the cap of a squeeze-type container and to replace the discharge spout. Such embodiments are shown, for example, in  FIGS. 5 ,  6 ,  7 ,  8 ,  10 ,  11 , and  12 . 
         [0046]    Certain embodiments of lubricant applicators provided by the present disclosure are configured to mechanically and fluidly connect to the cap of a lubricant container with the discharge spout removed. Such embodiments are shown, for example, in  FIGS. 1 ,  13 ,  14 ,  15 ,  16 , and  17 . 
         [0047]    Examples of lubricant applicators provided by the present disclosure configured for use with spray-type lubricant containers are shown, for example, in  FIG. 18 . As shown in  FIG. 18 , a lubricant applicator provided by the present disclosure can be adapted to mechanically connect to the top of a spray container and to fluidly connect to the discharge spout of the spray container using a tube. 
         [0048]    Examples of lubricant applicators provided by the present disclosure configured for use with push/pull-type lubricant dispenser are shown, for example, in  FIGS. 19 ,  20 ,  21  and  22 . In the push/pull-type lubricant dispenser embodiments, a lubricant applicator provided by the present disclosure is configured to mechanically and fluidly connect to the open end of a push/pull-type lubricant dispenser with the valve cap removed. 
         [0049]    With reference to  FIG. 1  and  FIG. 2 , applicators of the present disclosure are shown in an operating position relative to a standard bicycle or motorcycle drive chain  101  which is to be lubricated by the applicator. In the  FIG. 1  embodiment, the applicator  102  is designed to be used conveniently and effectively in conjunction with a standard plastic bottle  103 . In another embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 , the applicator  201  is used in conjunction with a standard plastic bottle  202  and a standard flip spout dispenser closure  203 . Examples of flip-spout designs are shown in  FIG. 3  and  FIG. 4 . This standard container  202  will be described briefly, after which the applicator will be described in more detail. 
         [0050]      FIG. 3  shows a standard container  301  with a main cylindrical body portion  302 , which contains lubricant or cleaning solvent, and an open end cap  303 . Mounted to the open end cap  303  is a top cover with a discharge spout  304 . As stated previously, the common method of utilizing such a standard container  301  to lubricate a drive chain is to discharge the lubricant directly from the discharge spout  304  onto the chain, while the container  301  is gently squeezed in an inverted position. Discharge spout  304  is typically attached to open end cap  303  using a snap-fit pivot. As shown in  FIG. 3 , discharge spout  304  is in an open configuration in which lubricant can escape from the opening in spout  304  when a pressure is applied to cylindrical body portion  302  such as when cylindrical body portion  302  is squeezed. The container  301  can be closed by pivoting discharge opening  304  into the recess in open end cap  303  and against the body of open end cap  303 . 
         [0051]      FIG. 4  shows a flip-spout container having a cap  404  with features for mounting the flip-spout including two slots  402  and  403  on each side of cavity  401 . 
         [0052]      FIG. 5  shows the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 , including a lubricating pad  501  and a single part housing  502 , that includes a spout and mounting portion  503  by which the applicator is mounted to the container closure  504 , and that provides a discharge path  505  between the contents of container  506  and the lubricating pad  501 , and having guides  507  and  508  on both sides (one side not shown) configured to guide the drive chain  509  to prevent the applicator from slipping off the chain  509  when the applicator is in use. The applicator can be considered as having a lengthwise axis that is parallel to the direction of drive chain travel, a transverse axis perpendicular to the lengthwise axis, and a vertical axis, which is parallel to the cylindrical axis of the container  506 . 
         [0053]    The lubricating portion  510  of the housing  502  comprises a surface  511  that the absorbent pad  501  is mounted to or retained within, and the conduit  505  that connects the pad mounting surface  511  to the mounting portion  503 , by which the applicator is attached to the container closure  504 , and is in communication with the liquid content of the container  506 . 
         [0054]    The container closure  504  can be configured to fasten to container  506  for example, with helical threads  513  and  514  on the respective parts. 
         [0055]    Mounted to or retained by the housing  502  is a removable and wear-resistant pad  501  that absorbs liquid discharged from the conduit  505  as the container  506  is gently squeezed, to lubricate the drive chain  509  as it passes through the applicator with alignment maintained by guides  507  and  508 . 
         [0056]    Except where otherwise mentioned,  FIG. 6  through  FIG. 9  describe the  FIG. 2  embodiment of the applicator, comprising the housing  801  and the absorbent pad  802  and the apparatus for mounting and sealing the embodiment with the container closure  404  ( FIG. 4 ). As shown in  FIG. 9 , the housing  801  has two pairs of guide ribs  901 / 902 , and  903 / 904 , configured to be disposed on each side of the drive chain  204  ( FIG. 2 ), and parallel to the lengthwise axis, and which align the housing  205  to the drive chain  204 . In certain embodiments, each guide rib  803  has an undercut  804  configured to hold or retain the absorbent pad  802  in place, and a width dimension between the two pairs of guides,  901 / 902  and  903 / 904 , that provides clearance for a range of drive chain widths. On each open end of the housing  801  are low ribs  905  and  906  that prevent the pad  802  from becoming dislodged as the drive chain  204  is moved through the housing  205 . The pad  802  is easily and securely installed in the housing by placing the pad  802  diagonally between the pairs of guide ribs  901 / 902  and  903 / 904 , inserting one edge of the pad into one of the paired, guide pin undercuts  804 , then pressing the pad  802  against the bottom of the housing  801 , so the opposite edge of the pad  802  engages the opposite paired guide pin undercuts  804 . 
         [0057]    In can be appreciated that although the chain guides are shown as ribs, other configurations and dimensions of guide may be used that serve to guide, direct, and/or maintain a chain in the center of applicator such that lubricant may be efficiently transferred from the fluid transfer pad to the drive chain. For example, where guide ribs are used, there may be one or more ribs on either side of the applicator such as for example, one, two, three or more guide ribs on either side of the applicator. The ribs may be integral to the applicator such that they are fabricated as the same part, or may be added to applicator during assembly. In certain embodiments, the guides may be adjustable to adapt to different widths of drive chain. For example, the guides may be configured to be slidably adjustable, adjustable using a screw mechanism, or adjustable using a thumbwheel mechanism. 
         [0058]    In the  FIG. 2  embodiment of the present disclosure, the mounting portion of the housing  205 , by which the applicator attaches to the container closure  404  with flip-top spout removed ( FIG. 4 ), is a rectilinear protrusion  805  with a through-hole  701 , half-round tip  806  and circular bosses  807  and  601  that are concentric to the half-round tip  806  and on the opposing sidewalls  702  and  703  of the protrusion  805 . The protrusion tip  806  is configured to form a liquid-tight seal against the mating surface  512  of the container closure  504  and to firmly attach the housing  502  to the container closure  504  by pressing the tip of the protrusion  503  into the flip-top spout cavity  401 , where the two circular bosses  807  and  601  of protrusion  805  snap-fit into the two slots  402  and  403  on each side of container closure  404  cavity  401 . The container closure  404  has a threaded fit  513 / 514  with the open end of container  506   
         [0059]      FIG. 10  through  FIG. 12  show the  FIG. 2  embodiment of the present disclosure, with the housing  1001  installed in the container closure  1002 , in the open position ( FIG. 10 ) to allow unrestricted flow of liquid through the fluid conduit  1003  from the container  1004  to the absorbent pad  1005 , and ( FIG. 11  and  FIG. 12 ) with the applicator rotated about the axis of housing  1101  circular boss  1102 , closing the fluid conduit  1201 , so the half-round tip  1202  of the housing  1203  effectively seals against the container closure  1204  to prevent unwanted liquid discharge from the container  1205 . 
         [0060]    Referring to  FIG. 10  and  FIG. 2 , with the housing  1001  and fluid conduit  1003  in the open position, and the applicator  201  in an inverted position ( FIG. 2 ), a user holds the absorbent pad  206  against the top of the drive chain  204 , and as the chain  204  is advanced along its lengthwise axis and through the housing  205 , the user gently squeezes the container  202 , dispersing a small amount of lubricant into the absorbent pad  206  and onto the drive chain  204 . In the case of a bicycle, the chain  204  may be advanced by backpedaling, and as the entire length of the chain  204  is advanced through the housing  205  along the lengthwise axis of the chain  204 , the chain is completely lubricated. It has been found that with the arrangements shown and described herein, the chain  204  can be properly and uniformly lubricated in all portions thereof, and there is no dripping or other unwanted contamination of the lubricant on other objects. 
         [0061]    With regard to certain specific features of the applicator  201 , it will be noted that the absorbent pad  206  is of a sufficient size, density and stiffness to hold a variable amount of lubricant without dripping; enable easy installation into and removal from housing  205 ; and stay in place within the housing  205  without becoming dislodged as the chain  204  is advanced through the housing  205 . In the embodiments disclosed herein, the absorbent pad measures 1 inch, along the lengthwise axis of the chain  204 , three-quarter inches wide, and one-quarter inch thick. However, other dimensions are suitable. 
         [0062]    Also, as indicated previously, the absorbent pad  204  can be easily turned to the opposite side to maximize pad life, or conveniently and inexpensively replaced. 
         [0063]      FIG. 13  shows the  FIG. 1  embodiment of the present disclosure, which is similar to the  FIG. 2  embodiment with the exceptions of having an integrated housing-and-container-closure  1301  and the means for shutting off the flow of liquid from the container  1302 . The  FIG. 1  embodiment combines the  FIG. 2  housing  205  and container closure  203  as a single part  1301 , having an opening  1303  between the absorbent pad  1304  and the container  1302 . A flow-control diaphragm  1305 , made, for example, from an elastomeric material and having a slit  1306  or other opening to regulate fluid discharge, and configured to seal the open end of container  1302  and the underside of the housing  1301  when fluid is not being discharge. The container closure  1301  has a threaded fit  1307  with the open-ended neck of container  1302 . In certain embodiments, the control diaphragm  1305  may have one or more compressible openings configured to open when liquid pressure is applied from the container and configured to seal when the pressure is released. In certain embodiments, the housing  1301  may be retained against the open-ended neck of container  1302  by a press-fit, or other appropriate configuration that secures the applicator to the container neck and that prevents leakage of the fluid. In certain embodiments, O-rings, gaskets or other seals may be employed. 
         [0064]    In another embodiment of the present disclosure,  FIG. 14  and  FIG. 15  reference the  FIG. 1  embodiment, but combine the  FIG. 13  housing  1301  and slitted control diaphragm  1305  as a single elastomeric part with a tubular neck  1401  having a compression fit  1501  with the open end of container  1502 . 
         [0065]    In an embodiment of the present disclosure,  FIG. 16  and  FIG. 17  reference the  FIG. 13  and  FIG. 14  embodiments, but without ( FIG. 13 ) ribs  1308 ,  1309 , (the opposite guide ribs not shown in this view), and  1310  and  1311 . The container closure  1701  is shown with a threaded fit  1702  to the open-ended neck of container  1703 , and an elastomeric diaphragm  1705  with a slit or other opening to regulate fluid discharge.  FIG. 16  and  FIG. 17  show absorbent pad  1601  permanently or semi-permanently attached to the housing  1602  with an adhesive backing  1704 . 
         [0066]      FIG. 18  shows a spray can embodiment of the disclosure, with a snap-fit assembly having two molded plastic parts, the absorbent-pad housing  1801  and spray-can attachment yoke  1802 . Tongue-and-groove joints  1803  and  1804  on either side of parts  1801  and  1802  provide side-to-side fastening, and parts are fastened top-to-bottom by attachment yoke  1802  spring-finger  1805  that is captured between pad-housing  1801  ribs  1806  and  1814 . Two opposing screws,  1807  and  1808 , are configured to tighten against the flared-end of the spray can  1809  to mount and retain attachment yoke  1802 . Other mechanisms may be used to attach yoke  1802  to spray can  1809  including a clamp or a slidable compression ring. Furthermore, in certain embodiments the yoke may be attached to the cylindrical body of spray can  1809 . 
         [0067]    A flexible tube  1810  serves as the conduit between the nozzle  1811  and the spout  1812  on absorbent pad housing  1801  that delivers spray-can contents to absorbent pad  1813 . 
         [0068]    In another embodiment as shown in  FIG. 19 , the applicator  1901  is used in conjunction with a standard plastic bottle  1902  and a standard push/pull valve dispenser closure  1903 . This standard push/pull valve closure  2001  is shown in  FIG. 20 , without the valve cap, having an open end  2002  and a relieved neck  2003  for captivating a valve-cap. 
         [0069]      FIG. 21  shows the  FIG. 19  embodiment of the present disclosure, with the housing  2101  installed on the valve closure  2102 , in the closed position to block liquid flow through the fluid conduit  2103  from the container  2104  to the absorbent pad  2105 . The sidewall  2106  of cylindrical protrusion  2107  is at the open end of the valve closure  2102 , and performs a wiping seal with the inside diameter of circular rib  2108  that protrudes from the end of bore  2109  on applicator housing  2101 . The container closure  2102  is shown with a threaded fit  2112  to the open-ended neck of container  2104 . 
         [0070]      FIG. 22  shows the  FIG. 19  embodiment of the present disclosure, with the housing  2201  installed on the valve closure  2202 , in the extended and open position to allow liquid to pass by circular rib  2203  and flow through fluid conduit  2204  from the container  2205  to the absorbent pad  2206 . Annular protrusion  2207  on inside diameter  2208  of cylindrical protrusion  2209  has an interference-fit with the “mushroomed” end  2212  of valve closure  2202 , that fastens applicator with housing  2201  when the two parts are pressed together, and forms a liquid-tight seal with valve closure  2202  outside diameter  2210 . Outside diameter  2211  and the “mushroomed” end  2212  of valve closure  2202  have a slip-fit with inside-diameter  2208  of housing  2201 . Housing  2201  annular protrusion  2207  forms a liquid-tight seal with valve closure  2202  outside diameter  2210 . “Mushroomed” end  2212  of valve closure  2202  holds housing  2201  in an open-valve position when engaged in housing  2201  relieved annular undercut  2213  below annular rib  2207 , and when the applicator is held in compression while applying liquid to a drive chain. 
         [0071]    The following is a method and sequence of assembling an applicator capable of lubricating a drive chain according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The methods comprise, for example, the steps of providing a container closure fabricated from a chemical-resistant material, capable of holding an absorbent pad, and having a liquid-tight seal with the container and a conduit between the pad and the container; providing a wear-resistant and liquid-absorbent pad of a size and density that will absorb a variable amount of liquid; providing a container having an open end that makes a liquid-tight seal with the fore-mentioned container closure; providing fastening means to secure the pad to the closure; and providing a means to shut off the flow of liquid from the container to the closure. 
         [0072]    Lubricant applicators provided by the present disclosure may be fabricated using any appropriate material. For example, in certain embodiments a applicator may be fabricated using a material selected from a metal, an alloy, a plastic, a composite, and a combination of any of the foregoing. In certain embodiments, a applicator is fabricated from a thermoplastic. In certain embodiments, the thermoplastic is selected from polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, polyvinyl carbonate, acrylonitrile styrene acrylate, and a combination of any of the foregoing. In general, it is desirable that the material from which a applicator is fabricated be solvent resistant and impact resistant. 
         [0073]    The dimensions of the lubricant applicators provided by the present disclosure may be any suitable dimension. Suitable dimensions are determined, at least in part, by the dimensions of the drive chain to be lubricated, the dimensions of the fluid discharge spout or opening of a fluid container to be connected, the dimensions of the cap of the fluid container, and dimensions useful to provide sufficient mechanical integrity to the applicator under conditions of use. Certain features such as ribs, rounded corners, thickened or narrow dimensions, and the like may be employed as appropriate to accomplish these and/or other objectives. 
         [0074]    Certain aspects of the lubricant applicator may be fabricated separately using the same or different materials and assembled, either prior to distribution, or by an end user. For example, a lubricant applicator may be provided as a part including a fluid opening, a housing having a recessed cavity and chain guides. Another part may comprise an assembly for enabling mechanical connection to a lubricant container. The separate parts may then include features that enable assembly such as snap-fit features or threads. 
         [0075]    In certain embodiments, a lubricant applicator including the aspects that enable mechanical and fluid coupling to a lubricant container can be made from a single part, such as an injection molded part. 
         [0076]    A fluid transfer pad may be made of any appropriate material that can transfer a liquid across a moving surface and also provide some resistance to fluid flow to prevent dripping. In certain embodiments, a fluid transfer pad is absorbent. In certain embodiments, a fluid transfer pad is selected from polyurethane, spun polypropylene, and a combination thereof. The shape and size of the fluid transfer pad may be any appropriate shape that functions to fit into the cavity of the applicator and that functions to transfer lubricant to the chain. The fluid transfer pad may be sized slightly larger than the cavity such that when inserted into the cavity, the fluid transfer pad is slightly compressed and retained within the cavity by compression. The surfaces of the fluid transfer pad may be flat, substantially flat, or may be shaped. For example, in certain embodiments a fluid transfer pad may have a corrugated or wavy surface on the side facing the chain to facilitate the transfer of lubricant into the central parts of the chain such as the pins, bushings, and rollers. In certain embodiments, a fluid transfer pad may have a central ridge or tongue that can reach into the inner parts of the chain to transfer lubricant to, for example, the rollers. In certain embodiments, an absorbent pad is sufficiently compressible that lubricant may be transferred to the inner parts of the chain. In certain embodiments, the surface of a fluid transfer pad may comprise protrusions, feathered features, or extensions configured to guide lubricant to surfaces of the chain. In certain embodiments, chain lubricant is transferred to the outer part of the chain to lubricate the pins and bushings, and not necessarily the rollers. (NOTE: Lubricating the outer part of the chain (pins and bushings) is where the lubricant is needed, not the rollers, and certainly not the side plates.) 
         [0077]    Lubricant applicators of the present disclosure are intended to be used with any appropriate roller chain lubricant, and in certain embodiments, a motorcycle chain lubricant, and in certain embodiments, a bicycle chain lubricant. In general, lubricant applicators provided by the present disclosure may be used with low viscosity lubricants, For example, a useful viscosity range for a mountain bicycle can be from ISO VG10 to ISO VG32. In certain embodiments, a lubricant may have a viscosity less than ISO 25, less than ISO 50, less than ISO 75, less than ISO 100, and in certain embodiments, less than ISO 150. The porosity, absorbancy, and/or other physical features of the fluid transfer pad may be selected to optimize transfer of lubricant from a dispenser to the chain depending on the viscosity of the lubricant being used. 
         [0078]    In certain embodiments, a lubricant applicator for applying a fluid to a chain comprises a cavity for retaining a fluid transfer pad; and a container interface comprising an internal fluid conduit, wherein, the container interface is configured to mechanically couple to a fluid container; and the internal fluid conduit is configured to fluidly couple a fluid contained in the fluid container to the fluid transfer pad. 
         [0079]    In certain embodiments, an applicator comprises a guide extending from sides of the cavity. 
         [0080]    In certain embodiments of an applicator, the chain comprises a roller chain. 
         [0081]    In certain embodiments, an applicator comprises a fluid transfer pad retained within the cavity. 
         [0082]    In certain embodiments, the fluid transfer pad is absorbent. 
         [0083]    In certain embodiments of an applicator, the fluid container comprises a flip-top spout dispenser. 
         [0084]    In certain embodiments of an applicator, the container interface is configured to mechanically couple to a spout of a flip-top spout dispenser. 
         [0085]    In certain embodiments of an applicator, the container interface is configured to replace a flip-top spout dispenser of a fluid container comprising a neck and a flip-top spout dispenser. 
         [0086]    In certain embodiments of an applicator, the container interface is configured to mechanically couple to the neck. 
         [0087]    In certain embodiments, an applicator comprises a cavity adjacent the fluid conduit configured to retain a diaphragm. 
         [0088]    In certain embodiments, an applicator comprises a diaphragm adjacent the fluid conduit. 
         [0089]    In certain embodiments, the diaphragm is porous. 
         [0090]    In certain embodiments, the diaphragm comprises an elastomeric valve comprising at least one sealable opening. 
         [0091]    In certain embodiments of an applicator, the container interface comprises threads configured to mechanically connect to a neck of the container. 
         [0092]    In certain embodiments of an applicator, the container interface is configured to mechanically connect to a neck of the container with a compression fit. 
         [0093]    In certain embodiments, an applicator comprises a chain guide wherein the chain guide overhangs the cavity to provide a lip configured to retain the fluid transfer pad. 
         [0094]    In certain embodiments, an applicator comprises a chain guide, wherein the guide comprises at least one guide rib on either side of the applicator perpendicular to an axis parallel to the direction of travel of the drive chain. 
         [0095]    In certain embodiments of an applicator, the container interface comprises a valve. 
         [0096]    In certain embodiments, the applicator is configured to mechanically and fluidly connect to a spray-can type lubricant container. 
         [0097]    In certain embodiments, an applicator comprises an attachment yoke configured to mount to a spray-can. 
         [0098]    In certain embodiments, an applicator comprises a bracket mechanically connected to the applicator, wherein the bracket is configured to mechanically connect to a spray-type lubricant container. 
         [0099]    In certain embodiments, an applicator comprises a tube having a first end fluidly connected to the internal fluid conduit and a second end for fluidly coupling to a discharge spout of a spray container. 
         [0100]    In certain embodiments, an applicator is configured to mechanically and fluidly couple to a push/pull-type lubricant dispenser without a valve cap. 
         [0101]    Fluid dispensers comprising an applicator provided by the present disclosure are also provided. 
         [0102]    In certain embodiments, a dispenser comprises a fluid container mechanically coupled to the container interface and fluidly coupled to the fluid conduit. 
         [0103]    In certain embodiments, a dispenser comprises a spray-type lubricant container mechanically coupled to the container interface and fluidly coupled to the fluid conduit. 
         [0104]    Finally, it should be noted that there are alternative ways of implementing the embodiments disclosed herein. Accordingly, the present embodiments are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive. Furthermore, the claims are not to be limited to the details given herein, and are entitled their full scope and equivalents thereof.