Abstract:
A fluid dispensing device, particularly suited to medicine but also having many other applications. The device selectively dispenses any of one or more fluids contained within the device. Adapters on the dispensing end of the unit permit the device to be effectively used for intra-venous, intra-dermal or intramuscular injections, gasses, colloids, gels, liquids or other fluids. Adapters on the head of the unit permit the device to be used with or without electrical power and to varying degrees of automatic control for timing, sequence, volume of fluid dispensed and other features. A preferred embodiment utilizes a pre-formatted, disposable or re-useable cartridge of several drugs suited for a particular medical purpose.

Description:
OTHER RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a continuation-in-part pending of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/610,930, filed on Dec. 14, 2006, which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to fluid dispensers, and more particularly, to a fluid dispenser that, in one of the preferred embodiments, is suited to dispense drugs. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     Several designs for fluid dispensers have been designed in the past. None of them, however, includes a means to selectively dispense fluids in a precise volume. 
     Applicant believes that the closest reference corresponds to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/156,575 by inventor Wesley Verkaart. However, it differs from the present invention because the Verkaart invention does not provide a means to precisely dispense liquids, does not have a triggering mechanism, does not provide a means to reduce mixing of the dispensed fluids, has no automatic or electrical features, requires greater user skill when used to deliver drugs and does not provide a means to inject at a specific needle depth, all of which are provided for in the present invention. 
     Other patents describing the closest subject matter provide for a number of more or less complicated features that fail to solve the problem in an efficient and economical way. None of these patents suggest the novel features of the present invention. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The instant invention is a fluid dispensing device comprising a head assembly comprising one or more shafts that controllably extend and retract and a means to power and control said shafts; a case assembly that comprises one or more vessels that contain fluid where said shaft can selectively exert force onto a vessel thereby expelling said fluid from the vessel; and a manifold assembly that channels the dispensed fluid from each of said vessels through a common output. The fluid dispensing device may be further characterized in that said means to power said head assembly is springs, pneumatic cylinders or electronic lineal actuators. The fluid dispensing device may be further characterized in that said vessels are unified into a cartridge removable from said case assembly. The fluid dispensing device may be further characterized in that the fluid dispensation is computer controlled. The fluid dispensing device may be further characterized in that said manifold assembly has a port for an external fluid source to flush through said manifold assembly. The fluid dispensing device may be further characterized in that one way valves are between each of said vessels and said manifold assembly. The fluid dispensing device may be further characterized in that a mechanical means to stop fluid dispensation at a selectable volume is present. A method of using the fluid dispensing device may be further characterized in that the fluids dispensed are drugs pre-selected for a specific medical procedure. A method of using the fluid dispensing device may be further characterized where the fluids dispensed are lubricants, food products, gasses, liquids, chemical reagents, tints, colorants, stains, paints or gels. The fluid dispensing device may be further characterized in that said manifold assembly includes a bubble trap. 
     The instant invention is alternatively a fluid dispensing device comprising a head assembly comprising a means to select a fluid to be dispensed and a means to dispense a fluid; a case assembly that contains one or more vessels containing fluid to be dispensed; a manifold assembly that channels the fluids to be dispensed through a common output port. The alternate fluid dispensing device may also be further characterized in that said means to power said head assembly is a spring, pneumatic cylinder or electronic lineal actuator. The alternate fluid dispensing device may also be further characterized in that said vessels are unified into a cartridge removable from said case assembly. The alternate fluid dispensing device may also be further characterized in that the fluid dispensation is computer controlled. The alternate fluid dispensing device may also be further characterized in that said manifold assembly has a port for an external fluid source to flush through said manifold assembly. The alternate fluid dispensing device may also be further characterized in that one way valves are between each of said vessels and said manifold assembly. The alternate fluid dispensing device may also be further characterized in that a mechanical means to stop fluid dispensation at a selectable volume is present. 
     The instant invention is alternatively a case that contains multiple fluids each in a vessel, a means to select a fluid to be dispensed and a manifold assembly to direct each fluid from said vessel through a common output port. The alternate fluid dispensing device may also be further characterized in that said means to power said head assembly is a spring, pneumatic cylinder or electronic lineal actuator. The alternate fluid dispensing device may also be further characterized in that said vessels are unified into a cartridge removable from said case assembly. The alternate fluid dispensing device may also be further characterized in that one way valves are between each of said vessels and said manifold assembly. 
     It is therefore one of the main objects of the present invention to provide a device that contains fluid that can be dispensed quickly. 
     It is another object of this invention to provide a device that can reduce human error in the dispensing of fluid. 
     It is an object of this invention to provide a compact and efficient fluid dispensing device. 
     It is an object of this invention to reduce waste and costs associated with storage and disposal of waste. 
     It is an object of this invention to provide a device that permits a reduced time to change between fluids dispensed. 
     It is an object of this invention to permit rapid re-loading of fluid in a safe and efficient manner. 
     It is an object of this invention to have a device that can dispense various fluids common to a particular application of use. 
     It is still another object of the present invention to provide a device that can be used effectively and safely, in certain embodiments, for emergency medicine, combat medicine, first responders, anesthesiology, dentistry, veterinary medicine and many medical situations. 
     It is yet another object of this invention to provide such a device that is inexpensive to manufacture and maintain while retaining its effectiveness. 
     Further objects of the invention will be brought out in the following part of the specification, wherein detailed description is for the purpose of fully disclosing the invention without placing limitations thereon. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       With the above and other related objects in view, the invention consists in the details of construction and combination of parts as will be more fully understood from the following description, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  represents a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a manual head assembly. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a cartridge assembly nested inside a case assembly. 
         FIG. 4  is a representation of a perspective view of an embodiment of a case assembly. 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a cartridge assembly. 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a manifold cartridge assembly nested inside a manifold assembly. 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a manifold assembly without a cartridge assembly. 
         FIG. 8  shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a manifold cartridge assembly. 
         FIG. 9  is a representation of a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a manual head assembly. 
         FIG. 10  is a partial cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a case assembly. 
         FIG. 11  shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a thumb lock. 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a thumb lock assembly. 
         FIG. 13  is a representation of a perspective view of an embodiment of a manifold cap. 
         FIG. 14  shows an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a manifold cartridge assembly. 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a guide assembly. 
         FIG. 16  is a representation of a perspective view of an embodiment of a pneumatic powered head assembly. 
         FIG. 17  shows a perspective view of a partial cross-section of an embodiment of a pneumatic head assembly. 
         FIG. 18  illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of an electronic head assembly. 
         FIG. 19  shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention with an electronic head assembly. 
         FIG. 20  is an example of a circuit diagram of an electrical head assembly. 
         FIG. 21  is an example of a circuit diagram of a pneumatic head assembly. 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view of a manifold assembly. 
         FIG. 23  is a perspective view of the manifold assembly shown in  FIG. 22 . 
         FIG. 24  is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electronic head assembly. 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective view of a cartridge assembly. 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a manual head assembly. 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a thumb lock assembly. 
         FIG. 28  is a cross-section elevation view of the thumb lock assembly shown in  FIG. 27  in a case assembly. 
         FIG. 29  is a cross-section perspective view of the thumb lock assembly shown in  FIG. 27  in a case assembly. 
         FIG. 30  is a circuit diagram of an alternate embodiment of a head assembly such as the electronic head assembly shown in  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 31  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a cartridge assembly. 
         FIG. 32  is a perspective view of a vessel. 
         FIG. 33  is a perspective view of a vessel. 
         FIG. 34  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a cartridge assembly. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     Referring now to the drawings, where the present invention is generally referred to with numeral  10 , it can be observed in  FIG. 1  that in this embodiment it basically includes a manual head assembly  100 , a case assembly  500  and a manifold assembly  600 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 1  an embodiment of said manual head assembly  100  is shown to comprise, inter alia, a handle assembly  152  and a head cap assembly  154 . Said handle assembly  152 , comprises, inter alia, a handle  102 , a cocking lever  104 , a trigger  106 , a trigger guard  108  and an indicator  110 . 
     Said cocking lever  104  is drawn away from said manual head assembly  100  to input energy into the invention to be subsequently used to dispense fluid from the device. Said trigger  106  is depressed to activate the dispensing of a fluid. The trigger  106  is protected from inadvertent activation by the protective trigger guard  108 . 
     Said handle  102  generally conforms to the shape of a human hand to facilitate ergonomic use of the device. As an optional feature, said handle  102  may be open to form a loop that can be used to lighten the device as well as provide a feature to secure the device in storage or while in use. For example, the invention could be hung onto a hook through the handle  102  for storage. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 1 , said head cap assembly  154  is comprised of, inter alia, a crown  116  with a knurled grip  112 . The handle assembly  152  is rotatably connected to the head cap assembly  154 . As described in more detail below, a fluid contained inside the device can be selected for output by applying force to the handle assembly  152  through the handle  102  effecting rotation of the handle assembly  152  relative to the head cap assembly  154 . An indicator  110  affixed to a turntable  114  that is part of the handle assembly  152  provides an aid to determine which fluid is selected for dispensing. The knurled grip  112  of the head cap assembly  154  aids the user assemble the device by providing a gripping surface to thread the manual head assembly  100  onto said case assembly  500  thus forming a unitary body. 
     As seen  FIG. 1 , said case assembly  500  is comprised of, inter alia, a case  502 , one or more viewing ports  504  and a thumb lock assembly  548  that is further comprised of, inter alia, a thumb lock  508 , an indicator  510  and a guide  512 , each described in more detail below. In one contemplated embodiment, the case assembly  500  contains a vessel  514  that can be partially seen in  FIG. 1  through one or more viewing ports  504  to show graduations  506  to determine the volume of fluid contained in the vessel(s)  514 . 
     Again referring to  FIG. 1 , exterior portions of one of several contemplated embodiments of a manifold assembly  600  is shown to comprise, inter alia, a manifold cap  602 , a fluid port  604 , a knurled grip  606  and another fluid port  608 , each described in more detail below. 
     Now referring to  FIG. 2  where the underside of the manual head assembly  100  is shown in more detail. In this embodiment of the device the handle assembly  152  is affixed to the turntable  114  by means of a nut  136 , but other means could similarly be used. For example, the handle assembly  152  could be welded to the turntable  114  or be formed from the same unitary material as the turntable  114 . 
     Also shown in  FIG. 2  is a knurled grip  112  to provide greater grip when the user assembles or disassembles the device. Threads  118  provide a means to connect the manual head assembly  100  to the case assembly  500 . Other means to connect the manual head assembly (or the other head assemblies described below) could include, inter alia, any of a wide variety of known and commonly used clips, snaps, brackets, straps, adhesives, welds, rivets, screws or other similar means. A key  126  is located in a predetermined position superior to the threads  118  and engages into a key slot  530  (shown on  FIG. 4 ) on the case assembly  500  to ensure that the mechanics of the mechanical head assembly  100  align with the case assembly  500  with adequate precision. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 2 , a plunger  120  affixed to a shaft  122  is shown. The shaft  122  is movable axially through the turntable  114 . Said shaft  122  and plunger  120  are part of the handle assembly  152 . One of the handle assembly&#39;s  152  functions is to provide a means to move the shaft  122 , and thereby the plunger  120 , axially through the turntable  114 . In this embodiment the shaft  122  also has a stop  124  that interacts with the thumb lock assembly  548  (shown in more detail in  FIG. 10  and described below) as one of the contemplated means to regulate the volume of fluid dispensed. 
     Yet referring to  FIG. 2 , a spring button  128  and a notch  132 , among other components, interact to provide a means to affirmatively select the rotational position of the turntable  114 , and thereby the handle assembly  152 , relative to the key  126  on the crown  116 . As the turntable  114  rotates relative to the crown  116  the spring button  128  encounters and frictionally engages a notch  132 . One or more notches  132  are arranged at predetermined positions on the turntable  114  to provide precise alignment of the plunger  120  relative to the key  126 . This is but one way to affirmatively select a position. Other suitable means to affirmatively select a position are commonly used in industry. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates one embodiment of the case assembly  500  with a cartridge assembly  522  fitted inside the case assembly  500 . In this view of the cartridge assembly a vessel  514 , a piston  524  and a key  518  are visible. The vessel  514  is generally cylindrical and is seen through a viewing port  504  on the side of the case assembly  500 . The piston  524  is generally cylindrical and slidably engaged inside of the vessel  514 . The vessel  514  is sealed by the piston  524 . In one contemplated embodiment the vessel  514  and piston  524  is similar to a commonly used medical syringe. When the device is dispensing fluid the plunger  120  (illustrated in  FIG. 2 ) applies force to the surface of the piston  524  and the piston  524  is forced downward axially along the interior of the vessel  514 . The key  518  on the cartridge assembly  522  mates with a key slot  530  of the case assembly  500  to ensure proper orientation of the cartridge assembly  522  to the case assembly  500 . 
     Still referring to  FIG. 3 , some features of the case assembly are visible including, inter alia, the case  502 , a seat  526 , threads  520 , a key slot  530 , an indicator  510 , a thumb lock  508 , a guide  512  and threads  516 . The threads  520  engage the threads on the manual head assembly  100  or other embodiments of various head assemblies, infra. Said manual head assembly  100  contacts the case assembly at said seat  526 . The threads  516  engage the threads  616  on the manifold assembly  600  (shown in  FIG. 6 ) or other embodiments of various manifold assemblies, infra. 
       FIG. 4  depicts the case assembly  500  without the cartridge assembly  522  as is present in  FIG. 3 . With the cartridge assembly removed the viewing ports  504  are shown around the periphery of the case assembly  500 . The number of viewing ports  504  would typically be commensurate with the number of vessels  514  (absent in  FIG. 4  and shown in  FIG. 5 ). 
       FIG. 5  is an illustration of one contemplated embodiment of a cartridge assembly  522  that comprises, inter alia, a frame  528 , a vessel  514 , graduations  506 , piston  524 , vessel port  532  and key  518 . Said frame  528  provides the structure to hold one or more vessels  514  fixed relative to one another. Said key  518  is positioned at a predetermined location on the frame  528  and is dimensioned to engage the key slot  530  on the cartridge assembly  522  (shown on  FIG. 4 ) at a precise relative orientation. An optional, but desirable, feature on each vessel  514  are graduations  506  to aid the user to more precisely measure the volume of fluid dispensed. Generally, the graduations  506  are readable through a viewing port  504  (as shown in  FIG. 3 ). The graduations  506  would typically show the remaining volume of fluid contained in the vessel  514  in milliliters or cubic centimeters as indicated by reading the position of the bottom of the piston  524  relative to the graduations  506 . Said vessel port  532  is the path by which the fluid contained in the vessel  514  exits the vessel  514  during dispensing. Vessel port  532  can also be where fluid is drawn back into the vessel  514  when refilling the vessel  514 . In one of the preferred embodiments the vessel  514  is a common syringe and the vessel port  532  is a common hypodermic needle affixed to the lower end of the vessel  514 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6  where one of the embodiments of a manifold assembly  600  is shown that is comprised of, inter alia, a manifold cap  602 , a fluid port  604 , a knurled grip  606 , a fluid port  608 , a key slot  610 , a septum  614 , threads  616 , a seat  618  and a manifold cartridge assembly  612 . When in typical use said manifold assembly  600  is threaded onto the case assembly  500  by means of threads  616  on the manifold assembly  600  engaging the threads  516  on the case assembly  500  and rests on the seat  618 . A knurled grip  606  aids the user when threading the pieces together. Other contemplated means to secure the case assembly  500  to the manifold assembly  600  (or other embodiments of manifold assemblies) could include, inter alia, any of a wide variety of known and commonly used clips, snaps, brackets, straps, adhesives, welds, rivets, screws or other similar means. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 6 , the manifold cartridge assembly  612  is nested in the manifold assembly  600 . The orientation of the manifold cartridge assembly  612  with the manifold cap  602  is maintained by aligning a key  628  on the manifold cartridge assembly  612  in the key slot  610  on the manifold assembly  600 . The top of the manifold cartridge assembly  612  may have a septum  614  capable of receiving said vessel port  532  (shown in  FIG. 5 ) and making a leak resistant union. For example, if the vessel port  532  was similar in form to a common hypodermic needle then the septum  614  could be made of a rubber-like material that a hypodermic needle could readily puncture and maintain a leak-resistant seal. Other means to connect the manifold cartridge assembly  612  to the vessel port  532  can be easily improvised from a wide variety of medical and industrial connectors readily available. 
       FIG. 7  shows an embodiment of the manifold assembly  600  without the manifold cartridge assembly  612 . Shown in this view is, inter alia, the knurled grip  606  to give the user better grip when attaching the manifold assembly  600  to the case assembly  500  by means of the threads  616  on the manifold assembly  600  and the threads on the case assembly  516 . Other contemplated means to secure the case assembly  500  to the manifold assembly  600  (or other embodiments of a manifold assembly) could include, inter alia, any of a wide variety of known and commonly used clips, snaps, brackets, straps, adhesives, welds, rivets, screws or other similar means. A seat  618  provides a stable surface for the case assembly  500  to contact the manifold assembly  600 . 
       FIG. 8  is an illustration of one embodiment of a manifold cartridge assembly  612  removed from the manifold cap  602  (shown in  FIG. 7 ). The structure of the manifold cartridge assembly  612  is supported by a frame  622 . On the superior side of said frame is one or more septum  614 . Typically, one septum  614  would be provided for each vessel  514  (shown on  FIG. 5 ). Each vessel port  532  on the cartridge assembly  522  mates with the corresponding septum  614  on the manifold cartridge assembly  612  to form a pressure-resistant seal. In one embodiment the vessel port  532  is similar to a hypodermic needle and the septum  614  is a rubber-like material and when the vessel port  532  is mated with the septum  614  the hypodermic needle pierces the rubber-like material creating a pressure-resistant union. Other suitable means of connecting the cartridge assembly  522  to the manifold cartridge assembly  612  have been considered and may include, inter alia, clips, nipples, clamps and other connectors. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 8 , in this embodiment each septum  614  is integrally connected to a conduit  630  that conducts the fluid to a manifold chamber  626 . The manifold chamber  626  is generally hollow and has a predetermined interior volume specific to the application. For example, in some applications it is preferable to avoid commingling of the various fluids as they are dispensed in succession and therefore a minimal volume is desired. In other applications a greater volume of the manifold chamber and/or an agitator inside the manifold chamber  626  may be desired to promote mixing of the fluids as the fluids are dispensed. Optionally, a valve  632  that prevents back-flow of fluid into the conduit  630  is inserted between all or each conduit  630  and the manifold chamber  626 . A key  628  may be used to ensure consistent orientation of the manifold cartridge assembly  612  with the manifold cap  602  when engaged into key slot  610 . A port  624  in the frame  622  provides an egress for the fluid port  608 . 
     In the embodiment of the manifold cartridge assembly  612  demonstrated in  FIG. 8  there is a fluid port  604  that receives fluid from a source external to the device and a fluid port  608  where any fluids finally exit the device. One of the contemplated applications that this embodiment of the manifold cartridge assembly would be well suited is for intra-venous injections. In this application it is possible that the fluids, in this example drugs, dispensed should not be mixed or commingle. To remedy this potential issue a sterile saline solution source can be connected to the fluid port  604 . After or while one (or more) of the drugs is delivered from the vessel  514 , through the vessel port  532 , septum  614  and conduit  630  into the manifold chamber  626  the sterile saline solution is introduced through the fluid port  604  to flush the drug out of the manifold chamber  626  and through a fluid port  608  where the drug exits the device and is pushed toward a patient by the sterile saline flow. In a preferred embodiment there is a one-way valve between the septum  614  and conduit  630  to prevent any backflow into the vessel  514 . 
       FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional view of the handle assembly  152  and shows an embodiment of the internal components of the manual head assembly  100 . This embodiment comprises, inter alia, a handle  102 , a cocking lever  104 , a trigger  106 , a trigger guard  108 , a turntable  114 , a plunger  120 , a shaft  122 , a stop  124 , a guide  138 , a fulcrum  140 , a spring  142 , a spring  144 , a stop  146 , a stop  148  and a catch  150 . When preparing the device for use the user manually pulls on the cocking lever  104  to compress the spring  144  that is held in place on the shaft  122  by the stop  146 . When the spring  144  is adequately compressed the catch  150  contacts the stop  148  to hold the spring  144  under compression. The catch  150  is biased toward and engages the stop  148  by means of a spring  142 . When the user desires to dispense a fluid the trigger  106  is pulled and the trigger pivots at the fulcrum  140 , compresses the spring  142  and the catch  150  clears the stop  148  freeing the spring  144  to push against the stop  146  and thereby push the shaft  122  and plunger  120 . The force of the spring  144  is transferred to the piston  524  (shown in  FIG. 5 ) to initiate dispensing a fluid contained in the vessel  514  (shown in  FIG. 5 ). The shaft  122  maintains axial alignment by means of a guide  138 . A trigger guard  108  is provided to prevent inadvertently pressing the trigger  106 . 
       FIGS. 10 ,  11  and  12  show in more detail one of the embodiments of the thumb lock assembly  548  that is utilized to limit the travel of the piston  524  effectively stopping the dispensing of fluid. In this embodiment of the device the thumb lock assembly comprises, inter alia, a rod  540 , an indicator  510 , a stop  546 , teeth  534 , thumb lock  508 , threads  536  and threads  542 . The indicator  510 , thumb lock  508  and threads  536  are outside of the case  502  while the stop  546 , rod  540  and teeth  534  are inside the case  502  for normal operation. The thumb lock  508  has internal threads  542  corresponding to threads  536  on the rod  540 . When the thumb lock assembly  548  is locked the thumb lock  508  is threaded onto threads  536  and the thumb lock  508  contacts the exterior of the case  502  while the teeth  534  contact the interior of the case  502  with such firmness as to prevent movement of the thumb lock assembly  548  relative to the case  502 . A knurled grip  544  on the thumb lock  508  may be provided to improve the users grip on the thumb lock  508 . To adjust the thumb lock assembly  548  the thumb lock  508  is loosened and the thumb lock assembly  548  is freed to travel along the guide  512 , also shown in  FIG. 4 . The indicator  510  can be viewed by the user on the exterior of the case  502  adjacent to the viewing port  504 . When the thumb lock assembly  548  is locked and the plunger  120  is in motion dispensing fluid and the piston  524  has traveled to the point indicated by the indicator  510  the stop  124  on the shaft  122  contacts the stop  546  on the thumb lock assembly  548  preventing the shaft  122  and plunger  120  from traveling further thus stopping dispensing more fluid. The dimensions of the thumb lock assembly  548  are such that when the indicator  510  is adjacent to the graduations  506  seen through the viewing port  504  the piston  524  will not travel further than the indicated level inside the vessel  514 . 
       FIG. 13  shows another alternative embodiment of a manifold cap  670  with features that are comprised of, inter alia, a key slot  634 , a seat  636 , threads  638 , a knurled grip  642  and a port  640 . This embodiment is attached to the case assembly  500  by means of threads  638  screwed onto threads  516  with the assistance of the knurled grip  642  until the seat  636  contacts the case  502 . As alternatives to the threads  638  the manifold cap  670  could be attached to the case  502  by many commonly available means such as clips, welds, adhesives, brackets or other means. A key slot  634  ensures proper alignment of the manifold cap  670  relative to a manifold cartridge assembly  672  (shown in  FIG. 14 ). 
       FIGS. 14 and 15  depict an embodiment of a manifold cartridge assembly  672  removed from the manifold cap  670 . The manifold cartridge assembly  672  is generally supported by a frame  648 . On a superior side of said frame  648  is one or more septum  644 . Typically, one septum  644  would be provided for each vessel  514  (shown on  FIG. 5 ). Each vessel port  532  on the cartridge assembly  522  mates with the corresponding septum  644  on the manifold cartridge assembly  672  to form a pressure-resistant seal. In a preferred embodiment there is a one-way valve between the vessel  514  and the manifold cartridge assembly  672  to prevent backflow into the vessel  514 . In one embodiment the vessel port  532  is similar to a hypodermic needle and the septum  644  is a rubber-like material and when the vessel port  532  is mated with the septum  644  the hypodermic needle pierces the rubber-like material creating a pressure-resistant union. Other suitable means of connecting the cartridge assembly  522  to the manifold cartridge assembly  672  have been considered and may include, inter alia, clips, nipples, clamps and other connectors. 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 14 and 15 , in this embodiment each septum  644  is integrally connected to a conduit  658  that conducts the fluid to a manifold chamber  656 . The manifold chamber  656  is generally hollow and has a predetermined interior volume specific to the application. For example, in some applications it is preferable to avoid commingling of the various fluids as they are dispensed in succession and therefore a minimal volume is desired. In other applications a greater volume of the manifold chamber and/or an agitator inside the manifold chamber  656  may be desired to promote mixing of the fluids as the fluids are dispensed. Optionally, a valve that prevents back-flow of fluid into the conduit  658  is inserted between all or each conduit  658  and the manifold chamber  656 . A key  646  may be used to ensure consistent orientation of the manifold cartridge assembly  672  with the manifold cap  670  when the key  646  is engaged into key slot  634 . A port  676  in the frame  648  provides an egress for a conduit  678 . On said conduit  678  are threads  652  and threads  650 . Threads  652  extend below and have a smaller diameter than the threads  650 . A needle  654  or other delivery device is threaded onto the threads  652  on the conduit  678 . A guide assembly  674  comprised of, inter alia, a knurled grip  660 , a guide  662 , threads  664  and a shaft  668  is placed over the needle  654  and threaded via threads  664  onto threads  650 . The guide assembly  674  can be threaded onto threads  650  to varying depths thus exposing more or less of the tip of the needle  654 . This feature controls the precise depth that the needle  654  can penetrate, for example into the patient. 
     One of the contemplated applications that this embodiment of the manifold cartridge assembly would be well suited for is for intra-dermal or intramuscular injections. In this application it is not typically suitable to utilize a flushing saline solution as described above for the manifold cartridge assembly  612  shown in  FIG. 8  because too great a volume of fluid would be dispensed under the skin or into the muscles of the patient. In this embodiment of the manifold cartridge assembly  672  it may be preferred to have minimum interior volume of the manifold chamber  656 . 
     Now referring to  FIG. 16  where an embodiment of a pneumatic head assembly  400  is shown. The pneumatic head assembly is housed in a case  402  made of a durable material to provide structure and protection for the contents of the case  402 . A base  405  is affixed to the bottom side of the case  402 . A threaded ring  407  with knurled edges is at the base of the case  402  and is used to thread the pneumatic head assembly  400  to the case assembly  500  at threads  520  (shown in  FIG. 3 ). A turntable  404  is in the interior of the case  402  and is rotatable relative to the base  405 . The turntable  404  has a plurality of teeth  406  around its periphery. The force for rotating the turntable  404  is provided by a motor  426  connected to a gear  430 . The gear  430  engages the teeth  406  thereby transferring the force of the motor  426  to cause a rotation of the turntable  404  relative to the base  405 . A variety of types of gears have been contemplated that would be equally effective alternative for gear  430  that include, inter alia, a worm-type gear if the axis of the motor  426  is perpendicular to the axis of the turntable  404  or a traditional circular gear if the axis of the motor  426  is parallel to the axis of the turntable  404 . The motor  426  is connected to the CPU  412  (central processing unit) by a cable  432 . In the preferred embodiment of the pneumatic head assembly  400  the motor  426  is a stepping motor. 
     The motor  426  and the rest of the pneumatic head assembly  400  can be controlled by a CPU  412  that is powered by a battery  408  or other power source such as regular alternating current, photo-voltaic cells, fuel cells or any other available power source. The battery  408  is connected to the CPU  412  by wires  458 . The CPU  412  receives input from an input device  462  that may be comprised of, for example, a keypad, buttons, knobs, dials or any other input means. The CPU  412  is connected to the input device  462  by a cable  410 . 
     Optionally, the CPU  412  may also utilize a display  460  to show the user relevant information as to the operation of the device. For example, the display  460  could show the user a variety of menus to aid in programming the CPU  412  for a particular purpose, such as the status of the device, time, pressure, volume of fluid remaining or dispensed by the device, battery power, identification of fluid or any of a wide variety of information relevant to the user of the device. The CPU  412  is connected to the display  460  by a cable  410  or other means. 
     The CPU  412  may also control, inter alia, a valve  416 , a valve  418 , a valve  434  and a valve  436  each mounted onto a cylinder  466 . Valve  416  and valve  418  are connected to the CPU  412  by a cable  414 . Valve  434  and valve  436  are connected to and controlled by the CPU  412  through cable  438 . Valve  416 , valve  418 , valve  434  and valve  436  control pressurized fluid passing into and out of the interior of the cylinder  466 . 
     In one of the preferred embodiments of the pneumatic head assembly  400  a pressure vessel  446  is secured by a mount  444  onto the turntable  404 . The pressure vessel  446  is connected to a receiver  448  and held into place by a tap  450  that is in turn secured by a mount  454 . A handle  456  aids the user in securing the tap  450  to the pressure vessel  446  creating a pressure resistant seal. A conduit  452  carries fluid under pressure to valve  416  and valve  436 . A conduit  420  is connected to valve  418  and provides a pathway for exhaust to escape out of the cylinder  466  and exit the device through a muffler  422 . A conduit  424  is connected to valve  434  and provides a pathway for exhaust to escape out of the cylinder  466  and exit the device through the muffler  422 . In the preferred embodiment the pressure vessel  446  is a common carbon dioxide cartridge such as are commonly used in pellet guns. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 16 , an alternate embodiment of the pneumatic head assembly  400  consists of, inter alia, substituting a hydraulic pump (not depicted) instead of the pressure vessel  446 . The hydraulic pump is controlled by CPU  412  and powered by a battery  408 . Conduit  452  carries hydraulic fluid to valve  416  and valve  436 . 
     Now referring to  FIG. 17  where a partial cutaway view of an embodiment of the pneumatic head assembly  400  (as shown in  FIG. 16 ) showing a cross section of said cylinder  466 . Said pressure vessel  446  is mounted securely by said mount  444  to said turntable  404 . Said tap  450  is secured to the turntable  404  by mount  454 . Said conduit  452  is secured to the pressure vessel  446  at the receiver  448  to form a pressure resistant seal by tightening the handle  456  thereby securing the union between the receiver  448  and the pressure vessel  446 . 
     Still referring to  FIG. 17 , on the interior of the cylinder  466  is a piston  468  connected to a shaft  440  that passes though the floor of the cylinder  466  at a seal  470  and terminates in a plunger  442  that retractably extends through and below said turntable  404 . To move the plunger  442  down, the valve  416  is opened and valve  418  is closed thereby permitting the fluid in the pressure vessel  446  to flow through the conduit  452  into the cylinder  466  creating high pressure above the piston  468  while at the same time valve  436  is closed and valve  434  opens so that the volume inside the cylinder  466  below the piston  468  is open to ambient pressure through the conduit  424  and muffler  422 . To raise the plunger  442  the inverse must occur: the valve  436  is opened and valve  434  is closed thereby permitting the fluid in the pressure vessel  446  to flow through the conduit  452  into the cylinder  466  creating high pressure below the piston  468  at the same time valve  416  is closed and valve  418  opens the volume inside the cylinder  466  above the piston  468  to ambient pressure through the conduit  420  and muffler  422 . 
     Returning now to  FIG. 16  this embodiment of a pneumatic head assembly  400  is typically used in conjunction with a case assembly  500  as shown in  FIG. 3  and a manifold assembly  600  as shown in  FIG. 6 . Both the pneumatic head assembly  400  and manifold assembly  600  are connected to the respective ends of the case assembly  500  to form a single unit. When the device is used the plunger  442  comes into contact with the piston  524  on the top of the vessel  514  and pushes any fluid contained in the vessel  514  out of the device through the manifold assembly  600 . 
     Now referring to  FIG. 18  where an embodiment of an electronic head assembly  300  is shown. The structure of the electronic head assembly  300  is provided by a case  301 . At the base of said case  301  is a threaded ring  334  that is used to connect the electronic head assembly  300  to a case assembly  500  at threads  520  (shown on  FIG. 3 ). The electronic head assembly  300  is controlled by a central processing unit (CPU)  302  and powered by a battery  348  and connected to said battery  348  by a cable  350 . The CPU  302  has an input device  354  that serves as an interface between the user and the invention. The input device  354  may consist of, inter alia, a keypad, dials, buttons or other similar means. The CPU  302  is also connected to a display  352  such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), light emitting diodes (LED) or other suitable means of display that are commonly used. The display  352  shows information to the user such as status, programs, power supply, fluid dispensed or remaining and any other relevant information. A socket  306  is optionally present and provides a means to connect a computer device to control, program or monitor said CPU  302 . Said socket  306  is connected to said CPU  302  by a cable  304   
     Said CPU  302  is connected to a motor  310  by a cable  308 . Said motor  310  is connected to a gear  314  that interfaces with teeth  316  around the circumference of a turntable  324 . Said CPU  302  controls and activates said motor  310  that in turn rotates said gear  314  that in turn rotates said turntable  324  about its axis. In the preferred embodiment said motor  310  is a stepping motor. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 18 , in a preferred embodiment a lineal actuator  328  is fixed onto said turntable  324 . Said lineal actuator  328  extends and retracts a shaft  330  that terminates in plunger  332  extendable below said turntable  324 . Said lineal actuator  328  is controlled by said CPU  302  and is connected to said CPU  302  by cable  346  connected to terminals  326  on the lineal actuator  328 . 
     Yet referring to  FIG. 18 , a sensor  320  is connected to said CPU  302  by a cable  318 . Said sensor  320  is fixed relative to the case  301 . A marker  322  is fixed onto the turntable  324 . When said turntable  324  rotates the marker  322  past the sensor  320  an input into the CPU  302  is generated to calibrate the precise angular position of the turntable  324 , and therefore necessarily the lineal actuator  328 , relative to the case  301 . The sensor  320  ensures that the plunger  332  is oriented directly over the proper vessel  514  (shown in  FIG. 3 ) when the electronic head assembly  300  is attached to the case assembly  500  as shown in  FIG. 19 . The preferred embodiment of the sensor  320  is a Hall Effect Sensor with a magnet as the marker  322 , but other sensors, such as a contact switch, would be equally effective. 
       FIG. 19  shows the assembled invention with the electronic head assembly  300 . When the invention is in use the electronic head assembly  300  is secured to a case assembly  500  that is in turn connected to a manifold assembly  600 . The manifold assembly as shown in  FIGS. 13 ,  14  and  15  may be substituted for the manifold assembly  600  when it is suitable to the application of the invention, for example when the invention is used to administer intra-muscular or intra-dermal injections. 
       FIG. 20  shows an example of a circuit configuration  700  utilized with, and contained inside, the electronic head assembly  300  as shown in  FIG. 18 . A processor  708  is the main controller and may also comprise a logic array and is powered by a battery  720 . The circuit configuration  700  is powered up by switch  718 . An input device  702  feeds user input through a decoder  704  into the processor  708 . In the preferred embodiment the input device  702  may be, for example, a keyboard, numeric pad, buttons, switches or other commonly used input devices. 
     Said processor  708  optionally may also be connected to a port  710  to connect the circuit configuration  700  to an external computer that may perform such functions as programming, monitoring and/or controlling the circuit configuration  700 . 
     A display  706  is optionally connected to the processor  708  to show information to the user such as the device status, fluid to be dispensed, fluid remaining, programming sequence, battery supply or any other relevant information. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 20 , a sensor  726  and marker  728  also provide an input into the processor  708  to aid in calibration of the position a lineal actuator  716  relative to the dispensed vessel  514  as described above in the discussion on  FIG. 18  where sensor  320  is analogous to sensor  726 , marker  322  is analogous to marker  728  and lineal actuator  328  is analogous to lineal actuator  716 . In the preferred embodiment the sensor  726  is a Hall Effect Sensor that produces a signal when a magnet, shown as marker  728 , passes next to the sensor  726 . As an alternative, the sensor  726  may be a contact switch or other suitable means to indicate to the processor  708  when the sensor  726  is positioned next to the marker  728 . 
     Said processor  708  gives input to a driver  714  that in turn activates a motor  722 . In the preferred embodiment the motor  722  is a stepping motor. Said motor  722  is analogous to the motor  310  in  FIG. 18  and performs to rotate the turntable  324  relative to the case  301 , also shown in  FIG. 18 . In the preferred embodiment the driver  714  is a translator and power driver circuit. The driver  714  is connected to battery  720  with a positive potential to turn the motor in one direction and also connected to battery  724  with a negative potential to turn the motor  722  in the opposite direction. 
     Said processor  708  also controls a driver  712  that in turn activates a lineal actuator  716  as also shown in  FIG. 18  as the lineal actuator  328 . As described in the discussion on  FIG. 18 , above, the lineal actuator  716  provides the force to dispense fluid contained in a vessel  514 , as shown in  FIG. 3 , when the shaft  330  and plunger  332 , as shown in  FIG. 18 , extend and press upon the piston  524 , as shown in  FIG. 3 . 
     Now referring to  FIG. 21  that shows a circuit configuration  800  for the pneumatic head assembly  400 , as shown in  FIG. 16  and described above. Said circuit configuration  800  is typically contained inside the pneumatic head assembly  400  as shown in  FIG. 16 . A processor  808  is the main controller and may also comprise a logic array and is powered by a battery  820 . The circuit configuration  800  is powered up by switch  818 . An input device  802  feeds user input through a decoder  804  into the processor  808 . In the preferred embodiment the input device  802  may be, for example, a keyboard, numeric pad, buttons, switches or other commonly used input devices. 
     Said processor  808  optionally may also be connected to a port (not depicted) to connect the circuit configuration  800  to an external computer that may perform such functions as programming, monitoring and/or controlling the circuit configuration  800 , similar to port  710  described in the discussion of  FIG. 20 , above. 
     A display  806  is optionally connected to the processor  808  to show information to the user such as the device status, fluid to be dispensed, fluid remaining, programming sequence, battery supply or any other relevant information. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 21 , a sensor and marker (neither depicted in  FIG. 21 ) similar to the sensor  320  and marker  322  shown on the electronic head assembly  300  as shown in  FIG. 18  and described above may also be present to aid in calibration of the invention. In the preferred embodiment the sensor  320  is a Hall Effect Sensor that produces a signal when a magnet, shown as marker  322 , passes next to the sensor  320 . As an alternative, the sensor  320  may be a contact switch or other suitable means to indicate to the processor  808  when the sensor  320  is positioned next to the marker  322 . 
     Said processor  808  gives input to a driver  826  that in turn activates a motor  824 . In the preferred embodiment the motor  824  is a stepping motor. Said motor  824  is analogous to the motor  426  in  FIG. 16  and performs to rotate the turntable  404  relative to the case  402 , also shown in  FIG. 16 . In the preferred embodiment the driver  826  is a translator and power driver circuit. The driver  826  is connected to battery  820 . 
     Said processor  708  also controls a driver  828  and a driver  830 . Said driver  828  operates to either close or open both a valve  814  and a valve  816  simultaneously. Said valve  814  and said valve  816  are analogous to valve  416  and valve  434 , respectively, shown in  FIG. 17 . Said driver  830  operates to close or open both a valve  810  and a valve  812  simultaneously. Said valve  810  and valve  812  are analogous to valve  418  and valve  436 , respectively, shown in  FIG. 17 . Valve  810 , valve  812 , valve  814  and valve  816  operate in concert as described for the respective valves as shown in  FIG. 17  and described above in the discussion on  FIG. 17  to move said piston  468 , shaft  440  and plunger  442  up and down. 
     Said circuit configuration  800  includes a pump  822  to supply a pressure source as an alternative to the pressure vessel  446  as shown in  FIG. 17 . The pump  822  supplies a pressure greater than ambient pressure to valve  814  and valve  812 . 
     Now referring to  FIG. 22  and  FIG. 23  where the same manifold assembly is shown from differing perspective views. Said manifold assembly is comprised of, inter alia, a body  852 , port  853 , port  850 , port  862 , channel  858 , valve  854 , trap  864 , trap  860  and receiver  856 . Said valve  854  is connected to the body  852  by said port  853  and terminates in a receiver  856  that is dimensioned to connect to a cartridge assembly such as cartridge assembly  1200  shown in  FIG. 25  and described in more detail below. The interior of said body  852  has a channel  858 . Said channel  858  having a port  862  at one end and a port  850  at the other end. Said channel  858  is also open between port  862  and port  850  to the port  853 . In the preferred embodiment there are multiple ports  853 , valves  854  and receivers  856  affixed to the body  852  and having an opening into the channel  858 . Said traps  860  and  864  are positioned between ports  850  and  862 , respectively, and said channel  858  and, inter alia, serve to trap any gas bubbles that may pass through said chambers  850  and  864 . 
     In the preferred method of medical use of the manifold assembly shown in the preceding figures a saline solution drip is first established to flow from a common saline solution bag, into port  850  and through the channel  858  past each port  853  then exiting the manifold assembly through port  862  then on to the patient. Drugs or other chemicals are introduced into the channel  858  through port  853  and are flushed out of the manifold assembly to the patient in the saline flow. Preferably, valves  854  are one way valves that prevent any flow into the valve  854  from the channel  858 . 
       FIG. 24  shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic head assembly  900  comprising, inter alia, a case  901 , battery  902 , cable  904 , head  908 , shaft  906 , grip  920 , lineal actuators  922 , a base  923 , an output device  931 , a cable  933 , a cable  932 , a cable  934 , a port  936 , a processor  938 , a display  940  and an input device  942 . 
     The structure of the electronic head assembly  900  is generally supported by the base  923  and the case  901 . On said base  923  are mounted a plurality of lineal actuators  922 . Movably extendable from the bottom of each one of said lineal actuators  922  is a shaft  906  that terminates on its lower end in a head  908 . 
     In the preferred method of use this electronic head assembly  900  is attached to a case assembly such as the case assembly  500  as shown generally in  FIG. 3 . A grip  920  surface aids in the assembly and disassembly of the device. Each lineal actuator  922  is positioned directly over a piston  524 . When said lineal actuator  922  is extended it presses on said piston  524  resulting in the dispensation of the contents of the vessel  514 . 
     Said processor  938  is the primary controller of this electronic head assembly  900  and is powered by a battery  902  via cable  904 . Said processor  938  has an input device  942  such as buttons, dials, a keypad or other similar means and a display  940  to show the user relevant information about the device. The processor optionally may be connected to a port  936  by a cable  934  to provide connectivity of the electronic head assembly  900  with an external device such as a computer, monitoring device, programmer, recorder, auxiliary display or other electronic accessory. Said processor  938  controls each of the lineal actuators  922  via cables  932 . An output device  931  such as, for example, a printer may optionally be present and connects to the processor  938  by a cable  933 . 
     Now referring to  FIG. 25  where a cartridge assembly  1200  is shown that comprises, inter alia, the manifold assembly shown in  FIGS. 22 and 23 , described above, a frame  1211 , divots  1204 , guides  1202 , pistons  1206 , a key slot  1208 , slot  1213  and windows  1210 . In the preferred embodiment said frame  1211  is a unitary piece that incorporates vessels that contain, for example, drugs. The vessels are sealed on top by said pistons  1206  and the contents of the vessels can be seen through said windows  1210 . Said windows  1210  optimally have graduations to aid the user measure the volume of the contents of the vessel. The cartridge assembly  1200  can made of a translucent material so that the vessels can be viewed without the need for a distinct window. The key slot  1208  ensures that the cartridge assembly  1200  is fit into a case assembly, for example the case assembly shown generally in  FIG. 4 , at the proper orientation. 
     Said divots  1204  interact with a head assembly, such as the head assembly shown generally in  FIG. 26  and described below, to aid in aligning the head with the cartridge assembly  1200 . Said guide  1202  and said slot  1213  on the cartridge assembly  1200  are used with the stop assembly  1300 , described below in the discussion on  FIGS. 27 through 29 . 
     In one of the preferred applications of the cartridge assembly  1200  each of the vessels is filled with a series of related drugs at the factory for a particular application. For example, a series of medications that would be used for anesthesia, infarction, stroke or any other anticipated situation where several medications are used during a session of treatment. 
       FIG. 26  shows an alternate embodiment of a manual head assembly  1100  that comprises, inter alia, a handle  1102 , a case  1152 , a trigger  1106 , a cocking lever  1104  a key  1123 , a shaft  1112 , a head  1120 , a shaft  1124 , a spring button  1128 , a base plate  1114 , a seat  1116 , threads  1118 , a grip  1113  and a port  1160 . In typical use said head assembly  1100  is attached to a case assembly, for example a case assembly similar to the case assembly  500  shown in  FIG. 4 . The seat  1116  rests on the seat  526  of the case assembly  500 . The threads  1118  secure the head assembly  1100  to the case assembly  500 . The grip  1113  is present to aid the user when tightening the threads  1118 . 
     Said key  1123  is provided to aid in proper alignment of the head assembly  1100  with a case assembly. Said spring button  1128  snaps into divots  1204  on the cartridge assembly  1200  (shown in  FIG. 25 ) when the shaft  1124  is aligned over said guide  1202  and said head  1120  is aligned over said piston  1206 . 
     The case  1152  contains the mechanics of the head assembly  1100  that move the shaft  1112  and shaft  1124  and in a preferred embodiment can be materially similar to the mechanics shown in  FIG. 9 , with the addition of shaft  1124 . Energy is introduced into the mechanics when the user pulls said cocking lever  1104 . The shaft  1112  and shaft  1124  are released by pulling the trigger  1106 . The handle  1102  provides a comfortable grip to the user and is optionally open to provide a means to hang the device, for example on an I.V. rack in an operating room. 
     The port  1160  is provided to allow the user to view the top side of a cartridge assembly  1200 , seen in  FIG. 25 . Optionally a cartridge assembly may be labeled with the contents of each individual vessel so that when the port  1160  reveals an indicator then the head assembly  1100  is positioned to dispense a particular fluid. For example, when a drug name is seen through the port  1160  the device is positioned to dispense that drug. As the head assembly  1100  is rotated to deliver another fluid the port  1160  repositions over the indicator for the next fluid to be dispensed. Said port  1160  can simply be a cutout on the base plate  1114  or may optionally be comprised of a transparent material. 
       FIGS. 27 ,  28  and  29  show generally a stop assembly  1300  and its relation to a case assembly  1320 . The primary purpose of the stop assembly  1300  is to limit the amount of fluid dispensed. This stop assembly  1300  is particularly suited to the head assembly  1100  shown in  FIG. 26 . In typical use, the volume remaining in a drug vessel can be viewed though a port  1324  cut out of the side of a case assembly  1320 . The user then loosens the stop assembly  1300  so that it can slide to the appropriate position on a track  1322  and the stop assembly  1300  securely tightened. The vessel then cannot be dispensed below the level indicated by the stop assembly  1300 . 
     The stop assembly  1300  comprises, inter alia, a frame  1312 , a guide  1304 , a tab  1302 , a neck  1310 , an indicator  1306  and a thumb screw  1308 . Said neck  1310  and said guide  1304  shuttle along a track  1322  in the case assembly  1320 . The thumb lock  1308  can tighten the indicator  1306  against the outside of the case assembly  1320  and the frame  1312  against the inside wall of the case assembly  1320  thereby preventing the stop assembly  1300  from moving. The indicator  1306  is positioned so that it points to the edge of a port  1324  on the case assembly  1320 . In typical use a user secures the stop assembly  1300  to the case assembly  1320  at the point along the track  1322  where the indicator  1306  is pointing to the level in the vessel where the user wishes to stop dispensation. 
     The tab  1302  interacts with the shaft  1124 . The shaft  1124  passes through the guide  1202  that passes through the cartridge assembly  1200 . While dispensing fluid the shaft  1112  presses the piston  1206  thus pressing the fluid out of the device while simultaneously the shaft  1124  descends into the guide  1202 . To physically stop the fluid from further dispensing at the selected point the shaft  1112 , shaft  1124  and the tab  1302  are dimensioned appropriately so that the shaft  1124  comes into contact with the tightened down tab  1302  at the same point where the shaft  1112  has pressed the top of the fluid being dispensed to the level indicated by the indicator  1306 . In the preferred embodiment of the device there is one stop assembly  1300  for each of the dispensed fluids. 
       FIG. 30  is an example of a circuit configuration for an electronic head assembly such as that shown in  FIG. 24 . This is but one example and many suitable variations are possible to produce more or less the desired functionality of the device. This circuit comprises, inter alia, an input device  1402  that could be for example a keypad, buttons or dials, a decoder  1404  to interface between said input device  1402  and a processor  1410 . Said processor  1410  optionally sends data to a display  1406  and/or an output device  1420  such as a printer or removable memory module. Also optionally connected to the processor  1410  is a port  1408  that can be used to interface the processor  1410  with another computer to perform functions, such as for example, provide auxiliary power, remote monitoring, programming dispensing sequences, diagnostics or other functions. The processor controls a set of lineal actuators  1414  through a driver  1412 . In a preferred embodiment there is a lineal actuator for each of the fluids dispensed, typically six. The head assembly is powered by batteries  1418  or externally through the port  1408  and can be turned on and off by a switch  1416 . 
       FIGS. 31 ,  32 ,  33  and  34  demonstrate an alternate embodiment of a cartridge assembly  1500  and a vessel assembly  1550  that comprise, inter alia, a frame  1514 , studs  1512 , frame  1518 , guides  1516 , valves  1510 , lances  1520 , trap  1508 , trap  1506 , port  1502  and port  1504 . Said frame  1518  is similar to the manifold assembly shown in  FIG. 22  in that the preferred method of use a saline solution enters port  1502  and passes through a channel (not visible in  FIG. 31  or  32 ) similar to the channel  858  (shown in  FIG. 22 ) past each of the valves  1510  then exiting the cartridge assembly through said port  1504 . Bubble traps  1506  reduce the number of bubbles that are dispensed with the primary fluid dispensed. On frame  1518  are studs that support frame  1514 . Frame  1514  has a series of guides  1516  about the periphery that aid in securing said vessel assembly  1550  to said cartridge assembly  1500 . 
     Said vessel assemblies  1550  are comprised of, inter alia, sidewall  1558 , septum  1556 , graduations  1554  and a piston  1552 . Said graduations  1554  aid the user in determining the volume of fluid contained in the interior of the vessel assembly  1550  and are printed on or formed into the sidewall  1558 . The top of the vessel assembly  1550  is sealed with a piston  1552 . The opposing end has a septum  1556  that is forced onto said lance  1520  opening up the interior of the vessel assembly  1550  to said valve  1510 . Said piston  1552  is forced into the interior of the vessel assembly  1550  thereby dispensing the fluid contained therein by means of any of the head units and case assemblies described above. The valves  1510  may be unidirectional to prevent back flow into the vessel assembly  1550 . 
     The foregoing description conveys the best understanding of the objectives and advantages of the present invention. Different embodiments may be made of the inventive concept of this invention. It is to be understood that all matter disclosed herein is to be interpreted merely as illustrative, and not in a limiting sense.