Patent Publication Number: US-11021315-B2

Title: Spray cap system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 15/347,617, filed on Nov. 9, 2016, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/299,881, filed Feb. 25, 2016. These applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This application generally relates to a spray cap system for dispensing the contents from a spray can and for enabling the use of an implement, such as a brush or foam pad applicator. In particular, this application relates to a spray cap system having a spray cap, spray button, spray nozzle, implement holder, and implement that enables a user to more consistently and accurately dispense and work with the contents from a spray can. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Existing spray cans typically include a spray tip through which the contents of the can are dispensed when an actuator, such as a button, is depressed by a user. A valve on top of the can may be opened when the actuator is depressed such that the contents of the can are forced out through an orifice of the spray tip onto a surface, for example. However, existing spray tips typically have a relatively uncontrolled discharge pattern that may create blotchy and sporadic placement, and result in the uneven and inconsistent coverage of a surface. 
     These relatively uncontrolled discharge patterns may be caused at least in part by the suboptimal design of orifices of existing spray tips and/or their flow chambers, which lead to suboptimal discharge patterns and surface coverages. Existing spray tips may also not be able to prevent the orifice from rotating. 
     In addition, the path that the contents of the can travels when dispensed from the valve may contribute to an uncontrolled discharge pattern. For example, when the valve on top of the can is opened, the contents of the can may travel through the valve then perpendicularly out through the orifice of the spray tip, such as in a 90 degree spray discharge arrangement. Existing spray tips with a perpendicular discharge flow path typically include a flow rod for controlling and compressing the flow of the contents of the can up to and through the orifice. Such flow rods may also extend out through the spray tip to assist in compressing the contents of the can before the contents are discharged through the orifice. 
     Furthermore, some existing spray caps on spray cans may include an integrated brush, a foam pad applicator, or a sponge, but no such spray caps permit interchangeability of one implement for another. Moreover, such integrated implements may be awkward and difficult to use in some situations, such as in small, tight, or narrow areas, due to the need for the user to manipulate the entire can and spray cap when using the implement. In addition, integrated implements cannot be removed from the spray caps while maintaining the ability to dispense the contents of the can. While some existing spray caps may have removable implements, these types of existing spray caps are typically not ergonomically designed to be comfortably used and do not have locking mechanisms to secure the implement to the spray cap. 
     Accordingly, there is an opportunity for a system that addresses these concerns. More particularly, there is an opportunity for a spray cap system that enables a user to more consistently and accurately dispense and work with the contents of a spray can. 
     SUMMARY 
     An implement spray cap system for more consistent and accurate dispensing of contents of a spray can and enabling use of an implement is disclosed. In this embodiment, the implement spray cap system includes: (A) a spray cap adapted to attach to a spray end portion of a spray can, the spray cap comprising a generally cylindrical tapered skirt adapted to fit over a top portion of the can, a recessed area formed by a cap sidewall extending upwardly from the skirt, and a nozzle opening formed through the cap sidewall; (B) a spray button moveably positioned in the recessed area of the spray cap, the spray button comprising a top surface, a button sidewall extending downwardly from the top surface, a nozzle receiver disposed on an outer surface of the button sidewall and engaged with the nozzle opening of the spray cap, and a flow chamber for conveying the contents of the can to the nozzle receiver; (C) a spray nozzle engaged with the nozzle receiver of the spray button, the spray nozzle comprising an elongated chamber having fluted inner walls for directing a flow of the contents of the can, a bowtie-shaped orifice in communication with the chamber, and first and second trapezoidal protrusions disposed on an outer face of the spray nozzle and positioned parallel to the orifice, the first protrusion positioned on one side of the orifice and the second protrusion positioned on the other side of the orifice; (D) an implement holder removably engaged with the spray cap, the implement holder comprising a holder backplane comprising a flexible cantilevered hinge lockingly engaged with the spray cap, a receiving slot slidingly engaged with the spray cap to attach the implement holder to the spray cap, an implement receiving portion formed by a sidewall extending from the holder backplane, the implement receiving portion comprising a locking mechanism adapted to removably secure the implement to the implement receiving portion, a holder nozzle opening formed through the holder backplane, and a plurality of scrubbing knurlings disposed on a surface opposite of the holder backplane; and (E) an implement assembly removably engaged with the implement holder, comprising an implement backplane removably secured to the implement receiving portion of the implement holder, an implement nozzle opening formed through the implement backplane and interfaced with the holder nozzle opening, and the implement arranged on the implement backplane. 
     The implement may include a brush comprising a plurality of resilient bristles formed on a surface opposite of the implement backplane, wherein a subset of the plurality of bristles is arranged to form an angled portion of the brush. The implement may include a brush comprising a plurality of resilient bristles mounted on the implement backplane, wherein a subset of the plurality of bristles is arranged to form an angled portion of the brush. The implement may include a foam pad applicator comprising a foam pad mounted on the implement backplane. 
     The spray cap may further include a substantially flat plate disposed on an outer surface of the sidewall, the plate comprising at least one mating aperture formed thereon, the at least one mating aperture adapted to interface with the implement holder. 
     The flow chamber of the spray button may include a first portion having an end adapted to interface with a valve stem of the can, and a second portion substantially perpendicular to and in communication with the first portion, the second portion extending from the first portion to the nozzle receiver. 
     The spray nozzle may further include a plurality of protrusions and a plurality of recesses disposed circumferentially about one end of the spray nozzle, the plurality of protrusions and the plurality of recesses adapted to mate with corresponding recesses and protrusions of the spray cap to maintain an orientation of the spray nozzle relative to the nozzle receiver and to prevent rotational movement of the spray nozzle relative to the nozzle receiver. 
     The spray button may be cantilevered from the nozzle receiver such that a central portion of the spray button is moveable when depressed. The recessed area of the spray cap may include a lip and a generally planar shelf portion extending laterally from an inner surface of the sidewall, wherein the lip and the shelf portion are adapted to engage with a rim of the can for attaching the spray cap to the can. 
     The flexible cantilevered hinge may include at least one locking protrusion at a distal end of the hinge, the at least one locking protrusion adapted to engage with at least one corresponding mating aperture of the spray cap, and a stop protruding from the hinge, the stop adapted to align the at least one locking protrusion with the at least one mating aperture. The hinge may be cantilevered such that the at least one locking protrusion is adapted to disengage from the at least one mating aperture of the spray cap when the hinge is depressed. 
     The holder nozzle opening may be formed by a wall extending from the holder backplane, and the holder nozzle opening is adjacent to the hinge. Each of the holder nozzle opening and the implement nozzle opening may be generally oblong. The locking mechanism of the implement receiving portion may include a plurality of detents to secure the implement to the implement receiving portion. The surface having the plurality of scrubbing knurlings disposed thereon may be angled. The implement may be secured to the implement backplane. 
     In an embodiment, a spray cap adapted to attach to a spray end portion of a spray can is disclosed, comprising a generally cylindrical tapered skirt adapted to fit over a top portion of the can, a recessed area formed by a sidewall extending upwardly from the skirt, the recessed area adapted to accept a spray button, the recessed area comprising a generally circular aperture adapted to attach to a rim of the can, and a generally planar shelf portion extending laterally from an inner surface of the sidewall, a substantially flat plate disposed on an outer surface of the sidewall, the plate comprising at least one mating aperture formed thereon, the at least one mating aperture adapted to engage with an implement holder, and a nozzle opening formed through the sidewall and the plate. 
     The recessed area may further include at least one anti-rotation protrusion formed on the inner surface of the sidewall, the at least one anti-rotation protrusion adapted to restrict rotation of the spray cap with respect to the can. The recessed area may further include a keyed locking structure adapted to engage with and retain the spray button. The keyed locking structure may include a plurality of engagement protrusions adapted to engage with a nozzle opening of the spray button. 
     A portion of a top edge of the sidewall may be integral with a portion of a top edge of the plate. The nozzle opening may be formed at a first end of the sidewall, and the shelf portion of the recessed area may extend laterally from the inner surface of the sidewall on a second end of the sidewall opposite the first end. The plate may be adapted to mate with a receiving slot of the implement holder. The at least one mating aperture may be further adapted to engage with at least one corresponding locking protrusion of the implement holder. The generally circular aperture may include a lip, and the lip and the shelf portion may be adapted to engage with the rim of the can for attaching the spray cap to the can. 
     In an embodiment, a spray button for dispensing contents from a spray can and adapted to a spray cap is disclosed, comprising a top surface, a sidewall extending downwardly from the top surface, a nozzle receiver disposed on an outer surface of the sidewall, the nozzle receiver adapted to accept a spray nozzle and interface with a nozzle opening of the spray cap, and a flow chamber for conveying the contents of the can to the nozzle receiver, the flow chamber comprising a first portion having an end adapted to interface with a valve stem of the can and a second portion substantially perpendicular to and in communication with the first portion, the second portion extending from the first portion to the nozzle receiver. 
     The nozzle receiver may include at least one engager adapted to retain the spray nozzle to the nozzle receiver. The nozzle receiver may include an orientation element disposed on an outer surface of the nozzle receiver, the orientation element adapted to maintain an orientation of the spray nozzle and to prevent rotational movement of the spray nozzle relative to the nozzle receiver. The orientation element may include a plurality of protrusions and a plurality of recesses that are disposed circumferentially on the outer surface of the nozzle receiver, wherein the plurality of protrusions is adapted to mate with corresponding recesses on the spray nozzle and the plurality of recesses is adapted to mate with corresponding protrusions on the spray nozzle. An inner surface of the second portion of the flow chamber may include a circumferential retaining element adapted to interface with a circumferential locking detent of the spray nozzle. 
     In an embodiment, a spray nozzle for dispensing contents from a spray can and adapted for attachment to a nozzle receiver of a spray button is disclosed, comprising an elongated chamber having fluted inner walls for directing a flow of the contents of the can, a bowtie-shaped orifice in communication with the chamber, first and second trapezoidal protrusions disposed on an outer face of the spray nozzle and positioned parallel to the orifice, the first protrusion positioned on one side of the orifice and the second protrusion positioned on the other side of the orifice, and an orientation element disposed circumferentially about one end of the spray nozzle, the orientation element adapted to maintain an orientation of the spray nozzle relative to the nozzle receiver and to prevent rotational movement of the spray nozzle relative to the nozzle receiver. 
     The inner walls may include a plurality of laminar flow channels. The orientation element may include a plurality of protrusions and a plurality of recesses that are disposed circumferentially about the outer face of the spray nozzle, wherein the plurality of protrusions is adapted to mate with corresponding recesses on the nozzle receiver and the plurality of recesses is adapted to mate with corresponding protrusions on the nozzle receiver. The first and second protrusions may be adapted to direct the contents of the can as the contents are expelled through the orifice during operation. An outer surface of the elongated chamber may include a circumferential locking detent adapted to interface with a circumferential retaining element of the nozzle receiver of the spray button. 
     In an embodiment, a spray button apparatus for dispensing contents from a spray can is disclosed, comprising: (A) a spray button comprising a top surface, a sidewall extending downwardly from the top surface, a nozzle receiver disposed on an outer surface of the sidewall, and a flow chamber for conveying the contents of the can to the nozzle receiver, the flow chamber comprising a first portion having an end adapted to interface with a valve stem of the can, and a second portion substantially perpendicular to and in communication with the first portion, the second portion extending from the first portion to the nozzle receiver; and (B) a spray nozzle engaged with the nozzle receiver of the spray button, the spray nozzle comprising an elongated chamber having fluted inner walls for directing a flow of the contents of the can, a bowtie-shaped orifice in communication with the chamber, first and second trapezoidal protrusions disposed on an outer face of the spray nozzle and positioned parallel to the orifice, the first protrusion positioned on one side of the orifice and the second protrusion positioned on the other side of the orifice, and a tip orientation element disposed circumferentially about one end of the spray nozzle, the tip orientation element adapted to maintain an orientation of the spray nozzle relative to the nozzle receiver and to prevent rotational movement of the spray nozzle relative to the nozzle receiver. 
     The nozzle receiver may include an aperture orientation element disposed on an outer surface of the nozzle receiver, the aperture orientation element engaged with the tip orientation element of the spray nozzle. The aperture orientation element may include a first plurality of protrusions and a first plurality of recesses that are disposed circumferentially on the outer surface of the nozzle receiver, the tip orientation element may include a second plurality of protrusions and a second plurality of recesses that are disposed circumferentially about the outer face of the spray nozzle, the first plurality of protrusions may be engaged with the second plurality of recesses, and the first plurality of recesses may be engaged with the second plurality of protrusions. An outer surface of the spray nozzle may further include a circumferential locking detent, and an inner surface of the second portion of the flow chamber of the spray button may include a circumferential retaining element engaged with the locking detent of the spray nozzle. The inner walls may include a plurality of laminar flow channels. The first and second protrusions may be adapted to deflect the contents of the can as the contents are expelled through the orifice during operation. 
     In an embodiment, a spray cap system for dispensing contents from a spray can is disclosed, comprising: (A) a spray cap adapted to attach to a spray end portion of the can, the spray cap comprising a generally cylindrical tapered skirt adapted to fit over a top portion of the can, a recessed area formed by a cap sidewall extending upwardly from the skirt, and a nozzle opening formed through the cap sidewall; (B) a spray button moveably arranged in the recessed area of the spray cap, the spray button comprising a top surface, a button sidewall extending downwardly from the top surface, a nozzle receiver disposed on an outer surface of the button sidewall and engaged with the nozzle opening of the spray cap, and a flow chamber for conveying the contents of the can to the nozzle receiver; and (C) a spray nozzle engaged with the nozzle receiver of the spray button, the spray nozzle comprising an elongated chamber having fluted inner walls for directing a flow of the contents of the can, a bowtie-shaped orifice in communication with the chamber, and first and second trapezoidal protrusions disposed on an outer face of the spray nozzle and positioned parallel to the orifice, the first protrusion positioned on one side of the orifice and the second protrusion positioned on the other side of the orifice. 
     The spray cap may further include a substantially flat plate disposed on an outer surface of the cap sidewall, the plate comprising at least one mating aperture formed thereon, the at least one mating aperture adapted to interface with an implement holder. The flow chamber of the spray button may include a first portion having an end adapted to interface with a valve stem of the can, and a second portion substantially perpendicular to and in communication with the first portion, the second portion extending from the first portion to the nozzle receiver. The spray nozzle may further include an orientation element disposed circumferentially about one end of the spray nozzle, the orientation element adapted to maintain an orientation of the spray nozzle relative to the nozzle receiver and to prevent rotational movement of the spray nozzle relative to the nozzle receiver. The spray button may be cantilevered from the nozzle receiver such that a central portion of the spray button is moveable when depressed. The recessed area of the spray cap may include a generally planar shelf portion extending laterally from an inner surface of the cap sidewall. The recessed area may further include a lip, wherein the lip and the shelf portion are adapted to engage with a rim of the can for attaching the spray cap to the can. 
     In an embodiment, an implement holder adapted to be removably attached to a spray cap is disclosed, comprising a backplane comprising a flexible cantilevered hinge having at least one locking protrusion at a distal end of the hinge, the at least one locking protrusion adapted to engage with at least one corresponding mating aperture of the spray cap, and a stop protruding from the hinge, the stop adapted to align the at least one locking protrusion with the at least one mating aperture, and a receiving slot adapted to slidingly engage with a plate of the spray cap to attach the implement holder to the spray cap, an implement receiving portion formed by a sidewall extending from the backplane, the implement receiving portion adapted to accept an implement, the implement receiving portion comprising a locking mechanism adapted to removably secure the implement to the implement receiving portion, a nozzle opening formed through the backplane, and a plurality of scrubbing knurlings disposed on a surface opposite of the backplane. 
     The nozzle opening may be formed by a wall extending from the backplane, and the nozzle opening may be adjacent to the hinge. The nozzle opening may be generally oblong. The nozzle opening may be adapted to interface with a corresponding opening of the implement. The locking mechanism of the implement receiving portion may include a plurality of detents to secure the implement to the implement receiving portion. The hinge may be cantilevered such that the at least one locking protrusion is adapted to disengage from the at least one mating aperture of the spray cap when the hinge is depressed. The surface having the plurality of scrubbing knurlings disposed thereon may be angled. 
     In an embodiment, a brush assembly adapted for attachment to an implement holder is disclosed, comprising a backplane adapted to be secured to an implement receiving portion of the implement holder, a nozzle opening formed through the backplane, and a brush comprising a plurality of resilient bristles formed on a surface opposite of the backplane, wherein a subset of the plurality of bristles is arranged to form an angled portion of the brush. 
     The subset of the plurality of bristles may be formed on a first portion of the surface opposite of the backplane, and each of the remainder of the plurality of bristles may have substantially the same length and may be disposed on a second portion of the surface opposite of the backplane. The nozzle opening may be generally oblong. The nozzle opening may be adapted to interface with a corresponding opening of the implement receiving portion. The brush may be secured to the backplane. The backplane may include an angled perimeter guide adapted to help urge insertion of the brush assembly into the implement holder. 
     In an embodiment, a brush holder system adapted to attach to a spray cap is disclosed, comprising: (A) a brush holder comprising a holder backplane comprising a flexible cantilevered hinge adapted to engage with the spray cap, a receiving slot adapted to slidingly engage with a plate of the spray cap to attach the brush holder to the spray cap, a brush receptacle formed by a sidewall extending from the holder backplane, the brush receptacle comprising a locking mechanism adapted to removably secure a brush assembly to the brush receptacle, a holder nozzle opening formed through the holder backplane, and a plurality of scrubbing knurlings disposed on a surface opposite of the holder backplane; and (B) the brush assembly removably engaged with the brush holder, comprising a brush backplane removably secured to the brush receptacle of the brush holder, a brush nozzle opening formed through the brush backplane and interfaced with the holder nozzle opening, and a brush comprising a plurality of resilient bristles formed on a surface opposite of the brush backplane, wherein a subset of the plurality of bristles is arranged to form an angled portion of the brush. 
     The flexible cantilevered hinge may include at least one locking protrusion at a distal end of the hinge, the at least one locking protrusion adapted to engage with at least one corresponding mating aperture of the spray cap, and a stop protruding from the hinge, the stop adapted to align the at least one locking protrusion with the at least one mating aperture. The hinge may be cantilevered such that the at least one locking protrusion is adapted to disengage from the at least one mating aperture of the spray cap when the hinge is depressed. The holder nozzle opening may be formed by a wall extending from the holder backplane, and the holder nozzle opening is adjacent to the hinge. Each of the holder nozzle opening and the brush nozzle opening may be generally oblong. The locking mechanism of the brush receptacle may include a plurality of detents to secure the brush assembly to the brush receptacle. The surface having the plurality of scrubbing knurlings disposed thereon may be angled. The brush may be secured to the brush backplane. The backplane may include an angled perimeter guide adapted to help urge insertion of the brush assembly into the brush holder. 
     In an embodiment, a foam pad applicator assembly adapted for attachment to an implement holder is disclosed, comprising a backplane adapted to be secured to an implement receiving portion of the implement holder, a nozzle opening formed through the backplane, and a foam pad applicator comprising a foam pad secured on a surface opposite of the backplane. 
     The nozzle opening may be generally oblong. The nozzle opening may be adapted to interface with a corresponding opening of the implement receiving portion. The foam pad applicator may be secured to the backplane. The backplane may include an angled perimeter guide adapted to help urge insertion of the foam pad applicator assembly into the implement holder. 
     In an embodiment, a foam pad applicator holder system adapted to attach to a spray cap is disclosed, comprising: (A) a foam pad applicator holder comprising a holder backplane comprising a flexible cantilevered hinge adapted to engage with the spray cap, a receiving slot adapted to slidingly engage with a plate of the spray cap to attach the foam pad applicator holder to the spray cap, a foam pad applicator receptacle formed by a sidewall extending from the holder backplane, the foam pad applicator receptacle comprising a locking mechanism adapted to removably secure a foam pad applicator assembly to the foam pad applicator receptacle, a holder nozzle opening formed through the holder backplane, and a plurality of scrubbing knurlings disposed on a surface opposite of the holder backplane; and (B) the foam pad applicator assembly removably engaged with the foam pad applicator holder, comprising a foam pad applicator backplane removably secured to the foam pad applicator receptacle of the foam pad applicator holder, a foam pad applicator nozzle opening formed through the foam pad applicator backplane and interfaced with the holder nozzle opening, and a foam pad secured on a surface opposite of the foam pad applicator backplane. 
     The flexible cantilevered hinge may include at least one locking protrusion at a distal end of the hinge, the at least one locking protrusion adapted to engage with at least one corresponding mating aperture of the spray cap, and a stop protruding from the hinge, the stop adapted to align the at least one locking protrusion with the at least one mating aperture. The hinge may be cantilevered such that the at least one locking protrusion is adapted to disengage from the at least one mating aperture of the spray cap when the hinge is depressed. The holder nozzle opening may be formed by a wall extending from the holder backplane, and the holder nozzle opening may be adjacent to the hinge. Each of the holder nozzle opening and the foam pad applicator nozzle opening may be generally oblong. 
     The locking mechanism of the foam pad applicator receptacle may include a plurality of detents to secure the foam pad applicator assembly to the foam pad applicator receptacle. The surface having the plurality of scrubbing knurlings disposed thereon may be angled. The foam pad may be secured to the foam pad applicator backplane. The foam pad applicator backplane may include an angled perimeter guide adapted to help urge insertion of the foam pad applicator assembly into the foam pad applicator holder. 
     These and other embodiments, and various permutations and aspects, will become apparent and be more fully understood from the following detailed description and accompanying drawings, which set forth illustrative embodiments that are indicative of the various ways in which the principles of the invention may be employed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an assembled spray cap system including a brush, shown installed on a representative can. 
         FIG. 2  is a rear perspective view of the spray cap system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an assembled spray cap system including an optional foam pad applicator, shown installed on a representative can. 
         FIG. 3A  is an exploded cross-sectional perspective view of the spray cap system of  FIG. 3  having a different, optional foam pad applicator or sponge shown mounted to a separate backplane or adapter, without the can. 
         FIG. 4  is a front view of the spray cap system of  FIG. 1  without the can. 
         FIG. 5  is a rear view of the spray cap system of  FIG. 1  without the can. 
         FIG. 6  is a side view of the spray cap system of  FIG. 1  without the can. 
         FIG. 7  is a top view of the spray cap system of  FIG. 1  without the can. 
         FIG. 8  is a bottom view of the spray cap system of  FIG. 1  without the can. 
         FIG. 9  is an exploded rear perspective view of the spray cap system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 10  is an exploded side view of the spray cap system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 11  is an exploded front perspective view of the spray cap system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 12  is an exploded cross-sectional perspective view of the spray cap system of  FIG. 1  without the can. 
         FIG. 13  is a side cross-sectional view of the spray cap system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a spray cap, a spray button, and a spray nozzle assembled together. 
         FIG. 15  is a front view of the spray cap, the spray button, and the spray nozzle of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 16  is a rear view of the spray cap, the spray button, and the spray nozzle of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 17  is a side view of the spray cap, the spray button, and the spray nozzle of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 18  is a top view of the spray cap, the spray button, and the spray nozzle of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 19  is a bottom view of the spray cap, the spray button, and the spray nozzle of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 20  is a front view of an embodiment of a spray button and a spray nozzle assembled together. 
         FIG. 21  is a rear perspective view of an embodiment of a spray nozzle. 
         FIG. 22  is a side cross-sectional view of the spray nozzle of  FIG. 21 . 
         FIG. 23  is a side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a spray button. 
         FIG. 24  is an exploded cross-sectional perspective view of an embodiment of a spray button and a spray nozzle. 
         FIG. 25  is a rear perspective view of an embodiment of a brush holder and a brush assembled together. 
         FIG. 26  is a front view of the brush holder and the brush of  FIG. 25 . 
         FIG. 27  is a rear view of the brush holder and the brush of  FIG. 25 . 
         FIG. 28  is a side view of the brush holder and the brush of  FIG. 25 . 
         FIG. 29  is a top view of the brush holder and the brush of  FIG. 25 . 
         FIG. 30  is a bottom view of the brush holder and the brush of  FIG. 25 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The description that follows describes, illustrates and exemplifies one or more embodiments of the invention in accordance with its principles. This description is not provided to limit the invention to the embodiments described herein, but rather to explain and teach the principles of the invention in order to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to understand these principles and, with that understanding, be able to apply them to practice not only the embodiments described herein, but also any other embodiment that may come to mind in accordance with these principles. The scope of the invention is intended to cover all such embodiments that may fall within the scope of the appended claims, either literally or under the doctrine of equivalents. 
     It should be noted that in the description and drawings, like or substantially similar elements may be labeled with the same reference numerals. However, sometimes these elements may be labeled with differing numbers or serial numbers in cases where such labeling facilitates a more clear description. Additionally, the drawings set forth herein are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in some instances proportions may have been exaggerated to more clearly depict certain features. As stated above, this specification is intended to be taken as a whole and interpreted in accordance with the principles of the invention as taught herein and understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. 
     The spray cap system and its components described herein can enable a user of a spray can to more consistently and accurately dispense the contents from the can. For example, the contents of a spray can may include a liquid or a foam, such as a cleaning agent for use as a cleaner, a stain remover, or a conditioner for use on various surfaces, including for example, a fabric, a vinyl, a leather, and carpet, or any other surface on which it is desired to dispense the contents of the spray can. A user of the spray cap system can dispense the contents from the can onto a surface by depressing a spray button that is movable relative to a spray cap on top of the can. The contents of the can may be dispensed from a valve of the can through a flow chamber of the spray button and out through a spray nozzle having a flow-straightening chamber and a bowtie-shaped orifice. The flow chamber of the spray button and the flow-straightening chamber of the spray nozzle may convey and guide the contents of the can and through the orifice so as to dispense the contents in an optimal discharge pattern and with a more efficient and optimal surface coverage. In addition, in some embodiments, paddle-like protrusions on the face of the spray nozzle that are positioned parallel to the orifice may assist in controlling and directing the flow of the contents of the can onto the surface in a more optimal manner. 
     The spray cap system and its components described herein may also enable a user of a spray can to more efficiently work with the dispensed contents of the can on a surface. For example, once the contents of the can, such as a cleaning agent, have been dispensed onto a surface, the user may desire to rub, scrub, and/or work in the dispensed contents on the surface. An implement, such as, for example, a brush, a foam pad applicator, or a sponge, may be removably attached to an implement holder, and the implement holder may be removably attached to the spray cap to allow use of the implement independently of the use of spraying of contents from the can. The implement may be removably secured to the implement holder. The implement holder may be configured to interchangeably receive any number of different implements, thereby providing manufacturing flexibility for marketing different can contents while minimizing tooling costs due to the universal design of the implement holder and to enable a user to quickly substitute one implement for another during use. In some embodiments, the implement is removably secured to the implement holder via a backplane, adapter, or other suitable interface, which backplane, adapter or other suitable interface may be integrally formed as a part of the implement or may be a separate component altogether. The implement can be used while attached to the spray cap, or if a user desires, the implement holder and the implement may be removed from the spray cap and used independently from the spray cap and the can, such as in environments that have small, tight, and/or narrow areas. In this latter situation, the implement can be used independently from the spray can, and the components that remain attached to the spray can enable a user to spray the contents of the spray can from the spray can while the implement and implement holder are removed from the spray can. 
       FIGS. 1-2  show an exemplary spray cap system  10  including a brush  100 , as installed on a representative can  14 .  FIG. 3  shows an exemplary spray cap system  12  including a foam pad applicator  102  having a foam pad  103 , as installed on a representative can  14 . The spray cap systems  10 ,  12  may also include a spray cap  200  that is attachable to the top of the can  14 , a spray button  300  movably arranged relative to the spray cap  200  and connectable to a valve stem  16  of the can  14 , and a spray nozzle  400  positioned on a discharge end of the spray button  300 . The can  14  may be composed of two or three pieces, and include a valve stem  16  from which the contents of the can  14  may be dispensed, as shown in  FIGS. 9-11 . The spray cap systems  10 ,  12  differ in the implement that is removably attachable to an implement holder  104 , i.e., the brush  100  and the foam pad applicator  102 , respectively, but otherwise include the same components, as described in more detail below. In some embodiments, the brush  100 , foam pad applicator  102 , or alternative implement may be secured, e.g., glued, to an implement backplane  128 ,  140 , which may be secured to, e.g., snapped into, the implement holder  104 . For example, a foam pad  103  of the foam pad applicator  102  may be secured to an implement backplane  140  using glue  135 , as shown in  FIG. 3A . In some embodiments, the implement may be secured to a substrate, which may be secured to backplane  140 . 
     At least some of the components of the spray cap systems  10 ,  12  may be formed of a polymer resin, such as polypropylene, high density polyethylene (HDPE), medium density polyethylene (MDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), or any combination thereof. For example, spray cap  200 , spray tip nozzle  400 , spray button  300  and brush  100  may be made from any of these polymers. The foam pad  103  (and other types of alternative implements) may be formed of a foam, a sponge material, a microfiber material, or other suitable materials. In some embodiments, each of the components of the spray cap systems  10 ,  12  may be made from the same materials. In other embodiments, one of more components of the spray cap system  10 ,  12  may be made from a different material than other components and thus may have different properties than the other components. 
     The components of the spray cap systems  10 ,  12  may be formed using an injection molded process, for example. In some embodiments, certain components may have characteristics that are different from the other components formed of resin. For example, the brush  100  and bristles  134  may each be formed of polypropylene but have different characteristics for purposes of being more pliable and soft, as compared to the other components formed of a polypropylene resin. As another example, the brush  100  may be formed of LDPE or HDPE to obtain particular desired properties. 
     Various components of the spray cap systems  10 ,  12  may have different physical characteristics. For example, the components could be different colors for aesthetic reasons. As another example, the spray button  300  may have improved sealing properties in order for the spray button  300  to interface with the valve stem  16  of the can  14  without leaking. As a further example, the spray cap  200  may be rigid to ensure that the spray cap  200  cannot be easily detached from the can  14  and to ensure that the implement holder  104  can be removably attached and detached from the spray cap  200  without breaking and without causing the spray cap  200  to detach from the can  14 . 
       FIGS. 4-13  show additional assembled, exploded, and cross-sectional views of the spray cap system  10  with and without the can  14 .  FIGS. 14-19  show views of the spray cap  200 , the spray button  300 , and the spray nozzle  400  assembled together and without the implement holder  104 . The spray cap  200  may be adapted to fit over and cover a top portion of the can  14 . In particular, a skirt  202  may be arranged on a lower portion of the spray cap  200 . The skirt  202  may be generally cylindrical and tapered, and adapted to fit over and cover the top portion of a can  14 . The skirt  202  may be tapered upwardly and inwardly relative to the top of the can  14 . A sidewall  204  extending upwardly from the skirt  202  may form a recessed area  206 . In some embodiments, the sidewall  204  may be indented relative to the skirt  202  to form the recessed area  206 , as shown in the figures. In other embodiments, other suitable shapes of the recessed area  206  may be formed by the sidewall  204 . 
     The spray button  300  may be disposed in the recessed area  206  of the spray cap  200 . The outer perimeter and/or profile of spray button  300  may have a shape generally corresponding to the recessed area  206 , but may be slightly smaller than the recessed area  206  such that the spray button  300  is movable relative to the recessed area  206  without touching the sidewall  204 . The recessed area  206  may have a generally circular aperture  208  with a lip  209  that can attach to a rim  18  of the can  14 , as best shown in  FIG. 13 . In addition, the recessed area  206  may include a generally planar shelf  210  at a rear portion of the spray cap  200 . The shelf  210  may extend laterally and/or inwardly from an inner surface of the sidewall  204 . The lip  209  and the shelf  210  may snap fit onto the rim  18  such that the spray cap  200  is attached to the can  14 . In particular, the lip  209  and the shelf  210  may horizontally interface with the can  14  underneath the rim  18  so that the spray cap  200  is secured to the can  14 . The shelf  210 , in conjunction with the lip  209 , may allow for continuous fit with the rim  18  of the can  14  while still allowing the spray button  300  to move when depressed by a user. 
     The inner surface of the recessed area  206  may also include one or more protrusions  212 , as best shown in  FIGS. 9 and 12 . The protrusions  212  may be formed on the inner surface of the sidewall  204 . When the spray cap  200  is installed on the can  14 , the protrusions  212  may restrict the rotation of the spray cap  200  on the can  14  by creating a tighter frictional fit with the rim  18  of the can  14 . In particular, the protrusions  212  may cause a radial compression and interference fit of the spray cap  200  with the can  14 . Furthermore, the protrusions  212  may radially center the spray can  200  on the can  14 . 
     The spray cap  200  may further include a plate  214  that is formed on an outer surface of the sidewall  204 . The plate  214  may be substantially flat and be adapted to engage with the implement holder  104 . The side edges  107  of the plate  214  may mate with corresponding receiving slots  106  of the implement holder  104 . In particular, the implement holder  104  may attach to the plate  214  by sliding the receiving slots  106  onto the side edges  107  of the plate  214 . The plate  214  may further include mating apertures  216  for engaging with and locking the implement holder  104  into place. The mating apertures  216  may mate with corresponding locking protrusions  108  of the implement holder  104 . The locking protrusions  108  may be on an end of a flexible cantilevered hinge  110  of the implement holder  104 . While the implement holder  104  slides onto the plate  214 , the surface of the plate  214  may deflect the hinge  110  and the locking protrusions  108 . When the locking protrusions  108  reach the mating apertures  216 , the locking protrusions  108  can snap into the mating apertures  216 . The mating of the locking protrusions  108  into the mating apertures  216  may ensure that the implement holder  104  is secured to the spray cap  200 . To remove the implement holder  104  from the spray cap  200 , the hinge  110  may be depressed so that the locking protrusions  108  are released from the mating apertures  216 . The user may then slide the implement holder  104  off of the plate  214 . 
     A nozzle opening  218  may be formed through the sidewall  204  and the plate  214  of the spray cap  200 . A nozzle receiver  302  (of the spray button  300 ) and the spray nozzle  400  may be positioned in the nozzle opening  218 . The nozzle opening  218  may be generally oblong or another suitable shape. When assembling the spray button  300  with the spray cap  200 , a keyed locking structure, including engagement protrusions  303  and positioning ramp  304 , on the nozzle receiver  302  may be engaged to the nozzle opening  218 . In particular, the nozzle receiver  302  with spray nozzle  400  mounted thereto may be inserted into the nozzle opening  218  with the spray button  300  oriented vertically, then the spray button  300  may be rotated to be oriented horizontally and positioned in the recessed area  206  of the spray cap  200 . During the rotation of the spray button  300  during assembly, the engagement protrusions  303  may engage with the nozzle opening  218  such that the nozzle receiver  302  (and the spray button  300 ) is retained in the nozzle opening  218 . The centering ramp  304  may abut an inner surface of the spray cap  200  so that the spray button  300  is centered over the can  14 . After installation, the spray button  300  may be cantilevered from the nozzle receiver  302  so that the spray button  300  can be depressed. 
     As described above, the spray button  300  may sit and be movable in the recessed area  206  of the spray cap  200 . In some embodiments, the spray button  300  may have a generally concave top surface  305 . A concave top surface  305  may assist a user in placing their finger on the spray button  300 , and also keep the finger of the user in place while depressing the spray button  300 . In other embodiments, the top surface  305  of the spray button  300  may be convex or flat. A side wall  306  of the spray button  300  may extend downwardly from the top surface  305 . The nozzle receiver  302  described previously may be disposed on an outer surface of the side wall  306 . 
     The spray button  300  may also interface with the valve stem  16  of the can  14  via a flow chamber  308 . The flow chamber  308  may be arranged on the underside of the spray button  300  for a 90 degree spray discharge, and include two portions arranged perpendicularly relative to each other for conveying the contents of the can  14 , as best shown in  FIGS. 8, 12, 13, 19, 23 , and  24 . The valve stem  16  of the can  14  and the spray nozzle  400  may therefore also be arranged perpendicularly relative to each other. A first portion  310  of the flow chamber  308  may be arranged vertically within the spray button  300  and have an end  312  adapted to interface with the valve stem  16  of the can  14 . In particular, the first portion  310  may have a generically conical shape, where the end  312  has a diameter greater than the remainder of the first portion  310 . During assembly of the spray cap system  10 , the valve stem  16  of the can  14  may be positioned within the end  312 . The end  312  may press fit with the valve stem  16  when the spray button  300  is initially depressed by a user so that the valve stem  16  is optimally sealed to the flow chamber  308 , as best shown in  FIG. 13 . In some embodiments, an upper portion of the first portion  310  may end higher than a second portion  314  (described below) to allow for fluid expansion before discharge, and to ease manufacture of the spray button  300 . 
     A second portion  314  of the flow chamber  308  may be arranged horizontally within the spray button  300  and be connected to and substantially perpendicular to the first portion  310 . The second portion  314  may extend from the first portion  310  to the nozzle receiver  302 . In some embodiments, the second portion  314  may be comprised of several differently sized cylindrical shapes to more optimally convey and guide the contents of the can  14  as it is dispensed by reducing turbulence as the fluid begins to compress as it moves towards the orifice  408 . The differently sized cylindrical shapes of the second portion  314  may also allow for more optimal molding of the flow chamber  308 . In some embodiments, the flow chamber  308  may have a single portion that is arranged inline with the valve stem  16 , e.g., at a zero degree orientation. 
     The spray nozzle  400  may be engaged to the spray button  300 , and in particular, to the nozzle receiver  302  so as to communicate with the flow chamber  308 . To ensure that the spray nozzle  400  is retained by the spray button  300 , a retaining element  316  may be disposed circumferentially on an inner surface of the second portion  314  of the flow chamber  308 . The retaining element  316  may be a groove on the inner surface of the second portion  314 , and may be adapted to interface with a corresponding locking detent  402  on an outer surface of the spray nozzle  400 . The locking detent  402  may be circumferentially disposed on the outer surface of the spray nozzle  400 . When the spray nozzle  400  is inserted into the flow chamber  308  during installation, the locking detent  402  may mate with the retaining element  316  such that the spray nozzle  400  is retained by the spray button  300 . The retaining element  316  and the locking detent  402  may comprise any geometry to allow retained attachment thereof. 
     To ensure that the spray nozzle  400  is oriented correctly in the spray button  300 , an orientation element, including a plurality of protrusions  318  and a plurality of recesses  320 , may be disposed on an outer surface of the nozzle receiver  302 . The protrusions  318  and the recesses  320  may be adapted to mate with a corresponding nozzle orientation element of the spray nozzle  400 . The orientation element in conjunction with the nozzle orientation element may also prevent rotational movement of the spray nozzle  400  relative to the nozzle receiver  302 . The protrusions  318  and the recesses  320  may be disposed circumferentially about the outer face of the nozzle receiver  302 . 
     The nozzle orientation element of the spray nozzle  400  may include a plurality of corresponding recesses  412  and a plurality of corresponding protrusions  414  that are disposed circumferentially on an outer surface of the spray nozzle  400 . The plurality of protrusions  318  of the spray button  300  may mate with the plurality of corresponding recesses  412  of the spray nozzle  400 , and the plurality of recesses  320  of the spray button  300  may mate with the plurality of corresponding protrusions  414  of the spray nozzle  400 . 
     The spray nozzle  400  may include several features to direct, convey, and guide the contents of the can  14  when dispensed. A chamber within the spray nozzle  400  may have a plurality of fluted inner walls  406 , which may or may not be tapered from one end to an opposite end. The flow of the contents of the can  14  may be directed by laminar flow channels of the fluted inner walls  406  with less turbulence. In addition, the orifice  408  of the spray nozzle  400  may have a bowtie shape, a circular shape, or any other geometrical shape. Furthermore, protrusions  410  may be disposed on the outer face of the spray nozzle  400 . In some embodiments, the protrusions  410  may have a trapezoidal shape and be positioned parallel to the orifice  408 . In other embodiments, the protrusions  410  may be another shape and may be positioned at any circumferential position(s) about the orifice. As the contents of the can  14  are expelled through the orifice  408 , the protrusions  410  may deflect and direct the expansion of the contents in a more controlled manner. Accordingly, the combination of the perpendicularly arranged flow chamber  308 , the fluted inner walls  406 , the bowtie-shaped orifice  408 , and the protrusions  410  can ensure a more optimal flow and an enhanced spray pattern of the contents of the can  14  as it is discharged onto a surface. Furthermore, this combination negates the need for a flow rod, as is used in existing spray tips. 
       FIGS. 25-30  show views of an exemplary implement holder  104  and a brush  100  as assembled together. The implement holder  104  may have a generally trapezoidal shape with smooth, rounded contours for ergonomic gripping and handling by a user. In other embodiments, implement holder  104  may include any geometry or profile suitable for gripping and manipulation by a user. For example, the upper end of the implement holder  104  together with the attached implement may be more narrow than shown in the figures, or even generally pointed, to reach hard-to-reach locations on a surface. 
     The implement holder  104  may be removably attached to a plate  214  of the spray cap  200 , as described above, using receiving slots  106  and locking protrusions  108 . A backplane  112  of the implement holder  104  may include the receiving slots  106 , the locking protrusions  108 , and the hinge  110 . In addition, a stop  114  may protrude from the hinge  110  of the backplane  112 . The stop  114  may prevent the implement holder  104  from travelling too far on the plate  214  when a user is sliding the implement holder  104  onto the plate  214 . The stop  114  may also act as a convenient place for a user to depress the hinge  110  when releasing the implement holder  104  from the plate  214 . 
     The receiving slots  106  may be formed by a lower portion  113  of the backplane  112  and an outer wall  117 . The lower portion  113  of the backplane  112  may be a recessed area of the backplane  112  such that the receiving slots  106  are formed between the lower portion  113  and the outer wall  117 . The top of the lower portion  113  may also act to prevent the implement holder  104  from travelling too far on the plate  214  when a user is sliding the implement holder  104  onto the plate  214 . 
     A nozzle opening  116  may be formed through the backplane  112  of the implement holder  104 . The nozzle opening  116  may be formed by a wall  118  extending from the backplane  112 , and may be generally oblong or another suitable shape. The contents of the can  14  may be dispensed from the spray nozzle  400  through the nozzle opening  218  of the spray cap  200  and the nozzle opening  116  of the implement holder  104 , when the implement holder  104  is installed on the spray cap  200 . A sidewall  120  may extend from the backplane  112  to form an implement receiving portion  122  that is adapted to accept an implement, such as the brush  100  or the foam pad applicator  102 . The implement receiving portion  122  may generally have the same shape of the implement, and may include a locking mechanism  124  to secure the implement to the implement holder  104 . In some embodiments, the locking mechanism  124  may include protrusions that engage with corresponding recesses  130  on the side edges  107  of an implement backplane  128 ,  140  to retain the implement to the implement holder  104 . In embodiments, the implement backplane  128 ,  140  may include an angled perimeter guide  137  to help urge insertion of the implement backplane  128 ,  140  into the implement holder  104 . 
     The sizes of the implement and the implement holder  104  can vary depending on the particular material used for each component. For example, the material for each component may have different properties, e.g., shrink rates. However, in these situations, the implement holder  104  may still securely retain the implement because the locking mechanism  124  and the recesses  130  may still function as described above regardless of the variation in dimensions. 
     In some embodiments, the implement holder  104  may further include a heel  125  that has an angled surface with or without rough scrubbing knurlings  126  disposed thereon. The heel  125  may be angled at 30 degrees or another suitable angle to allow a user to rub in the contents of the can  14  into a surface, such as for deep cleaning purposes. The knurlings  126  may be formed on the heel  125  and be disposed at various patterns and angles. In some embodiments, the heel  125  of the implement holder  104  may be a flat surface without scrubbing knurlings. In other embodiments, the implement holder  104  may not include a heel  125  or may have a heel  125  of any other suitable geometry. In some embodiments, heel  125  may be flat and configured to match the height or thickness of the exposed portion of backplane  128 , 140 . In other embodiments, heel  125  may be configured to approximate the height, angle, or profile of bristles  134 , foam pad  103 , or any other implement mounted to implement holder  104 . 
     An implement comprising brush  100  having bristles  134  in combination with heel  125  from implement holder  104 , as shown in  FIG. 1 , for example, provides a user with the flexibility to brush or rub the dispensed contents onto a surface using the bristles  134  while also providing the user with the ability to deeply rub the dispensed contents into a surface using the leverage provided by the heel  125  of implement holder  104 . In some embodiments in which the heel  125  is not present, bristles  134  of brush  100  may be positioned across the entirety of backplane  128 , 140 . In some embodiments in which the heel  125  is not present, backplane  128 , 140  may be configured to generally match the perimeter contour and/or profile of sidewall  120  of implement holder  104 . In some embodiments, the features of any implement, including bristles  134  of brush  100  and foam pad  103  of foam pad applicator  102  may be configured to span any desired area and density across backplane  128 , 140 . In some embodiments, the physical properties and/or performance characteristics of the implement may be relatively consistent across the area in which it is present across backplane  128 , 140 . In some embodiments, the physical properties and/or performance characteristics of the implement may vary across the area in which it is present across backplane  128 , 140 . 
     The brush  100 , as an exemplary implement shown in  FIGS. 25-30 , may be removably attached to the implement receiving portion  122  of the implement holder  104 . The brush  100  may include a backplane  128  that has a nozzle opening  132  formed therein. In some embodiments, the brush  100  may be integrally formed as a part of the backplane  128  from the same material. In other embodiments, the brush  100  may be formed separately from the backplane  128  to permit interchangeability of the brush  100  with a different implement. The nozzle opening  132  may be adapted to fit over the nozzle opening  116  of the implement holder  104 , and may be generally oblong or another suitable shape. When the brush  100  and the implement holder  104  are installed on the spray cap  200 , the contents of the can  14  may be dispensed through the nozzle opening  218  of the spray can  200 , the nozzle opening  116  of the implement holder  104 , and the nozzle opening  132  of the brush  100 . 
     In some embodiments, the brush  100  may also include a plurality of resilient bristles  134  formed on an outer surface of the backplane  128  and extending therefrom. In other embodiments, the brush  100  may include the plurality of bristles  134  mounted to a separate backplane  140  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 3A ). The bristles  134  may be utilized by a user to scrub and rub the contents of the can  14  on a surface, for example. In some embodiments, the bristles  134  may have a uniform length. In other embodiments, the bristles  134  may have an angled portion  136 , as best shown in  FIGS. 6, 13, and 28 . The angled portion  136  may include bristles  134  with gradually shorter lengths than the remainder of the bristles  134  that have a uniform length. The angle formed by the angled portion  136  may be approximately the same angle as the heel  125 , in some embodiments. A user may be able to work in small, tight, and/or narrow spaces with the angled portion  136  of the brush  100  and the heel  125  and the scrubbing knurlings  126  of the implement holder  104 . 
     In some embodiments, bristles  134  may be relatively short. In some embodiments, bristles  134  may be relatively long. In some embodiments, the length of bristles  134  may vary over any portion of backplane  128 , 140 . In other words, different portions of the bristles  134  may have different bristle lengths, and bristles adjacent one another may have different bristle lengths. In some embodiments, bristles  134  may extend from backplane  128 , 140  at any angle. In some embodiments, bristles  134  may be relatively soft, relatively stiff, or may vary in softness and/or stiffness over the length of the shaft of each bristle  134 . In some embodiments, bristles  134  may have different softness and/or stiffness from one bristle portion to another bristle portion across backplane  128 , 140 . 
     This disclosure is intended to explain how to fashion and use various embodiments in accordance with the technology rather than to limit the true, intended, and fair scope and spirit thereof. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to be limited to the precise forms disclosed. Modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiment(s) were chosen and described to provide the best illustration of the principle of the described technology and its practical application, and to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the technology in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the embodiments as determined by the appended claims, as may be amended during the pendency of this application for patent, and all equivalents thereof, when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they are fairly, legally and equitably entitled.