Dispensing apparatus
The present invention relates to an apparatus ( 100 ) for the storing and dispensing of products. In particular, the present invention relates to an apparatus ( 100 ) for the storing and dispensing of inter-reactive compounds wherein the inter-reactive compounds are efficiently mixed on extrusion or expulsion.
1. Apparatus for storing and dispensing a product, the apparatus comprising:
a cartridge containing at least two separate chambers, each of the at least two separate chambers containing different compounds which are intended to be mixed; and
a substantially rigid outer casing adapted to receive the cartridge, the rigid outer casing having a first end with a wide opening and a second end with a narrow opening;
a single expansion chamber proximate to and in communication with said narrow opening;
wherein products to be dispensed are sealed in the cartridge with a single rupturable sealing means in the form of a sealing clip which is releasable under pressure, the cartridge containing the at least two separate chambers expanding into the single expansion chamber and the single rupturable sealing means forming a weakened area capable of rupturing when pressure is applied to the cartridge and on release of the sealing clip different compounds of the cartridge mix substantially together.
2. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the cartridge is made from thin, flexible film with a high tear strength.
3. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the cartridge is made from a metal/alloy foil.
4. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the outer casing is adapted to receive the cartridge and forms a snug fit with the outer walls of the cartridge.
5. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein pressure is applied to one end of the cartridge by a dispensing gun.
6. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the single expansion chamber comprises reaction shoulders which abut and prevent the cartridge from moving further along the longitudinal length of the outer casing as pressure is applied.
7. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the apparatus further comprises a nozzle.
8. Apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the nozzle comprises an integral mixer unit which further aids the mixing of different compounds.
9. Apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the nozzle also comprises means for catching the sealing means.
10. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the sealing means is formed by any metal or plastics material which is wound round the ends of the cartridge.
11. Use of apparatus according to claim 1 for dispensing products for use in chemical anchors, sealants, food processing and medical applications.
12. An apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein, the single expansion chamber has a shoulder, the shoulder engaging the cartridge and preventing the cartridge from traveling any further along the casing when pressure is applied to the cartridge.
13. An apparatus according to claim 12 , wherein the shoulder extends along a reduced diameter section.
14. An apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the cartridge expands fully into the single expansion chamber.