HAIR DYE DEVELOPER PACKAGING

Abstract

A formulation cartridge including a body portion configured to contain a formulation pouch, a release located on a body portion of the formulation cartridge, a handle portion configured to enclose at least a portion of the body portion, and a protrusion internal to the handle portion, where the protrusion is configured to apply pressure onto the release when the body portion is inserted into the handle portion, and where the pressure degasses the body portion of the formulation pouch. Further, a method of degassing the formula cartridge including placing the formula pouch into the body portion of the formulation cartridge, inserting the body portion into the handle portion, contacting the protrusion inside the handle portion with the release on the body portion, applying pressure to the release with the protrusion, and degassing the formulation cartridge.

Claims

1. A formulation cartridge comprising: a body portion configured to contain a formulation pouch; a release located on a body portion of the formulation cartridge; a handle portion configured to enclose at least a portion of the body portion; and a protrusion internal to the handle portion, wherein the protrusion is configured to apply pressure onto the release when the body portion is inserted into the handle portion, and wherein the pressure degasses the body portion of the formulation pouch.

2. The formulation cartridge of claim 1, wherein the release is located on a rear body portion of the formulation cartridge.

3. The formulation cartridge of claim 1, wherein the release is located on a hump of the body portion of the formulation cartridge.

4. The formulation cartridge of claim 1, wherein the protrusion is triangular.

5. The formulation cartridge of claim 1, wherein the protrusion is a first protrusion located on a first internal side of the handle portion, and wherein the formula cartridge further comprises: a second protrusion located on a second internal side of the handle portion on a second internal side of the handle potion, opposite the first internal side.

6. The formulation cartridge of claim 1, wherein the protrusion comprises a bump.

7. The formulation cartridge of claim 1, wherein the protrusion comprises a spring.

8. The formulation cartridge of claim 7, wherein the spring comprises a coil and a platform.

9. The formulation cartridge of claim 7, wherein the spring is selected from a compression spring, a leaf spring, or a molded spring.

10. The formulation cartridge of claim 7, wherein the formulation cartridge further comprises: a valve configured to purge gas emitted from the release, and wherein the valve is force balanced to the spring.

11. The formulation cartridge of claim 1, The formulation cartridge of claim 1, wherein the protrusion is located on a side of the handle portion.

12. The formulation cartridge of claim 1, wherein the release is located on a half of the body portion of the formulation cartridge.

13. The formulation cartridge of claim 1, wherein the protrusion is located on a bottom of the handle portion.

14. The formulation cartridge of claim 1, wherein, when pressure is applied to the release, an opening is formed.

15. The formulation cartridge of claim 1, wherein the formulation cartridge further comprises: a valve configured to purge gas emitted from the release.

16. The formulation cartridge of claim 1, wherein the formulation cartridge further comprises the formulation pouch, and wherein the formulation pouch contains a hair developer.

17. A method of degassing the formula cartridge of claim 1, the method comprising: placing the formula pouch into the body portion of the formulation cartridge; inserting the body portion into the handle portion; contacting the protrusion inside the handle portion with the release on the body portion; applying pressure to the release with the protrusion; and degassing the formulation cartridge.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein applying pressure to the release forms an opening in the body portion.

19. The method of claim 17, further comprising: purging gas emitted by the release with a valve on the formulation cartridge.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein the protrusion is a spring, and wherein the method further comprises: purging gas emitted by the release with a valve on the formulation cartridge, wherein the valve is force balanced to the spring.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] FIG. 1 is an example device, in accordance with the present technology;

[0016] FIGS. 2A-2B are example formula cartridges, in accordance with the present technology;

[0017] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of an example formula cartridge, in accordance with the present technology;

[0018] FIGS. 4A-4D show example releases of a formula cartridge, in accordance with the present technology;

[0019] FIGS. 5A-5C are process diagrams of degassing a formula cartridge, in accordance with the present technology;

[0020] FIGS. 6A-6D are example handle portions, in accordance with the present technology; and

[0021] FIG. 7 is a method of degassing a formula cartridge, in accordance with the present technology.

[0022] The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Disclosed herein are devices, systems, and methods configured to de-gas formulation cartridges. In some embodiments, disclosed herein is a device configured to selectively apply hair dye and developer. Hair developer, when mixed with hair dye, left in a formulation cartridge, or otherwise, may off-gas. When a user attempts to apply the hair dye and/or developer with a device, the ratio of hair dye and developer may be changed or incorrect as the formulation cartridge including the developer off-gasses and the formulation cartridge including the hair dye dispenses hair dye. Accordingly, disclosed herein are example releases and internal protrusions configured to de-gas hair developer formulation cartridges to avoid this issue. While the following disclosure mentions hair developer, it should be understood that any formulation that off-gasses could be used with the devices, systems, and methods described herein, including, but not limited to hair dye, cosmetic formulations, nail polish, and the like.

[0024] FIG. 1 is an example device, in accordance with the present technology. Illustrated is a representative formulation delivery device 100, and components thereof, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The formulation delivery device 100 is configured to receive a formulation cartridge 102 type (including a cleaning cartridge of the same type). An embodiment of a formulation cartridge of the formulation cartridge 102 type is described below in detail with respect to FIGS. 2A-4D; the formulation cartridge 102 shown in FIG. 1 shall be understood to have the same features as described there. Some embodiments of formulation delivery device 100 include the formulation cartridge 102 and/or an optional pull through adapter 104.

[0025] Formulation delivery device 100 includes a reusable handle 106 formed from an ABS plastic or similar rigid polymer or other material, and in some embodiments is an assembly formed from a plurality of shells configured to be joined together with fastening elements such as snaps, screws, or the like. Reusable handle 106 has a hollow, elongate gripping portion with a cartridge cavity therein which is sized and dimensioned to receive the formulation cartridge 102 type. In some embodiments, the cavity includes keying features that facilitate correct insertion of the formulation cartridge 102 type. For example, some embodiments include a cartridge interface 108 disposed in the opening and having a flat docking surface that interfaces with a corresponding docking surface of the formulation cartridge 102 when the latter is correctly inserted into the opening.

[0026] A controller (not shown in FIG. 1) includes logic configured for operation on a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium, and includes modules that personalize the user experience, provide helpful analytics, and enable e-commerce. In some embodiments, a corresponding application runs on a mobile device such as a smartphone, a tablet, or the like, and interacts with a user (e.g., an end user or a salon technician) to provide actionable information through a plurality of modules. In some embodiments, the application communicates with the formulation delivery device 104 and a network, such as a mobile network, a cloud-based enterprise network, a local area network, or the like.

[0027] Together, the formulation cartridge 102, formulation delivery device 104, and application provide an improved, customized, user experience. In some embodiments. the formulation delivery device 104 is a connected electromechanical appliance that interacts with the user, with formulation cartridges 102, and optionally with the application in order to provide a customized and personalized user experience.

[0028] Generally, formulation delivery device 104 includes a reusable handle 106 configured to receive the formulation cartridge 102 type, as well as a formulation dispensing assembly and a controller, both disposed in the reusable handle. The formulation dispensing assembly comprises at least one fluid conduit fluidically connected to a motorized pump and to a reciprocating nozzle assembly and is configured to draw formulation or cleaning liquid from the formulation cartridge 110 and to dispense the same through the reciprocating nozzle assembly onto a hair portion, scalp portion, or body portion of a user.

[0029] The controller is configured to toggle between at least a cleaning routine and formulation routine responsive to one or more inputs indicative of the cleaning cartridge or the formulation cartridge 102 inserted into the reusable handle 106.

[0030] In some embodiments, the formula delivery device 104 further includes a cartridge interface 108 configured to accept the formula cartridge 102, a reciprocating nozzle assembly 114 configured to move a plurality of nozzles or standoff protrusions 116, a button 126 to operate the formula delivery device 104, visual indicators 128 (such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs)) indicating a status of the formula delivery device 104, a cartridge cavity 124 configured to accept the formula cartridge 102, and an encryption chip 132.

[0031] FIGS. 2A-2B are example formula cartridges, in accordance with the present technology. Illustrated is a representative formulation cartridge 102 of a formulation cartridge type which is compatible with any of the formulation delivery systems, formulation delivery devices, and formulation product lines described herein. However, the formulation delivery systems, formulation delivery devices, and formulation product lines described herein are not required to use the sustainable formulation cartridge 102 shown in FIG. 8A FIG. 10.

[0032] Formulation cartridge 102 is a sustainable embodiment specifically designed to reduce waste and environmental impact, while delivering a user-friendly experience. To that end, formulation cartridge 102 includes two main components: a handle portion 205 and a disposable formulation cartridge refill unit 201 (hereinafter referred to simply as refill unit 201) configured to reversibly slide into the handle portion 205. Historically, known cartridges were designed to be entirely disposed of after depletion of the formulation stored therein, leading to significant waste and higher consumer cost.

[0033] In contrast to known cartridges, the formulation cartridge 102 is constructed such that the handle portion 205 can be reused indefinitely and the refill units 201 can be readily replaced after depletion of the formulation stored therein. Further still, each refill unit 201 is configured to be deconstructed into smaller components, some of which can be recycled in some embodiments, and others disposed of. Thus, the formulation cartridge 102 utilizes an innovative structure to reduce waste and improve the user experience.

[0034] Handle portion 205 is sized, dimensioned, and constructed to be repeatedly inserted into the cartridge cavity of the formulation delivery device. Accordingly, handle portion 205 is formed of ABS plastic or similar rigid polymer or other material and includes a hollow handle portion 205 configured to receive the refill unit 201 therein, and a tray portion 219 that extends away from handle portion 205. Handle portion 205 is a two-piece assembly in the representative embodiment shown (although it may be one-piece in other embodiments) and is sized and dimensioned such that it forms a seamless extension of the formulation delivery device handle when fully inserted into a cartridge cavity (such as cartridge cavity 124) thereof. Tray portion 219 projects away from handle portion 205 and has a U-shape configured to support the refill unit 201 (e.g., the front body portion 209). To facilitate secure engagement and easy removal, handle portion 205 includes coupling means for coupling the formulation cartridge 102 to a reusable handle of a formulation delivery device. Representative coupling means include a cartridge release 221 (e.g., a latch) formed in the handle portion 205, which engages the formulation delivery device upon proper and complete insertion. Thus, the common formulation cartridge 110 type enables a consumer to utilize many different formulations in a single formulation delivery device 104.

[0035] In a representative embodiment, the formulation product line 102 includes hair coloring formulation and a scalp treatment formulation. In other representative embodiments, the formulation product line 102 comprises at least two, three, four, five, six, seven, or eight of the following different formulations, each of which is stored within the same formulation cartridge 110 type: a permanent hair dye and a developer; a semi-permanent hair dye and a developer; a shampoo; a conditioner; a hair growth treatment such as minoxidil; a hair protein treatment; a disulfide bond repairing hair treatment; or a fluid scalp treatment.

[0036] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of an example formula cartridge, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the cartridge refill unit 201 generally includes a refill packet comprising a shell 207 enclosing at least one formulation vessel (e.g., a packet, pouch, or other vessel), for example a first formulation pouch 243A and a second formulation pouch 243B, and a valve frame 213 coupled with the refill packet, e.g., a front body portion 209 of the shell 207. The first formulation pouch 243A and second formulation pouch 243B respectively contain a first formulation and a second formulation. The refill unit 201 may optionally include packet sleeve 241.

[0037] Each of first formulation pouch 243A and second formulation pouch 243B has a volume of about 40 mL to about 70 mL, about 50 mL to about 60 mL, about 40mL to about 65 mL, about 40 mL to about 60 mL, about 40 mL to about 55 mL, about 40 mL to about 50 mL, about 45 mL to about 70 mL, about 50 mL to about 70 mL, about 55 mL to about 70mL, about 60 mL to about 70 mL, or about 55 mL. In some embodiments, first formulation pouch 243A and second formulation pouch 243B have different volumes. In some embodiments, refill unit 201 stores only a single formulation vessel.

[0038] The first formulation and second formulation can each be any of the formulations described herein, for example a permanent hair dye; semi-permanent hair dye; developer; conditioner; hair growth treatment, such as minoxidil; hair protein treatment; disulfide bond repairing hair treatment; fluid hair treatment; fluid scalp treatment, or the like. In some embodiments, the first formulation and second formulation differ. For example, in some embodiments, the first formulation is a hair dye and the second formulation is a developer. In other embodiments, the first formulation and second formulation are the same (e.g., a conditioner or scalp treatment formulation).

[0039] As shown in FIG. 3, each formulation pouch 243A, 243B includes a formulation-containing packet 247 and valve means for selectively-fluidic coupling the refill unit to a dispensing nozzle unit of a formulation delivery device when the formulation cartridge 102 is received within the hand-held formulation dispensing device. Representative valve means include a valve 215 through which the formulation exits the packet 247. Representative formulation vessels are described in International Patent Application Publication No. 2019/067336A2, published Apr. 4, 2019 and assigned to L'Oreal SA, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2021/0196021A1, published Jul. 1, 2021 and assigned to L'Oreal SA, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties for all purposes.

[0040] The shell 207 has an elongate shape sized to be received within the reusable handle portion 205. Shell 207 encloses and protects the first formulation pouch 243A and second formulation pouch 243B and engages the valve frame 213 (described below). Thus, shell 207 functions as packaging which protects the formulation pouches 243A, 243B during commerce prior to loading into the formulation delivery device.

[0041] In some embodiments, shell 207 has a total length between 150 mm and 250 mm (e.g., 175 mm-225 mm, 185 mm-215 mm, 195 mm-205 mm, or 200 mm) and a maximum cross sectional dimension of 25 mm-50 mm (e.g., 30 mm-45 mm, 35 mm-40 mm, or 36mm). Shell 207 has a rear body portion 225 and a slender front body portion 209, e.g., a neck portion, extending away from the body portion 225. The body portion 225 and the slender front body portion 209 generally align in a common longitudinal direction to enable assembly with the reusable handle portion 205, and to enable insertion into the cartridge cavity of the formulation delivery device.

[0042] In some embodiments, shell 207 is constructed at least partially from recyclable or recycled material, e.g., a paper material such as an injection-molded paper material or a die-cut structured paper (e.g., cardboard). In the illustrated embodiment, the shell 207 is formed from a single piece of injection-molded paper material. In some embodiments in which the shell 207 is formed of paper, the paper has a weight between 8-12 points (e.g., 8.5 points, 9.0 points, 9.5 points, 10.0 points, 10.5 points, 11.0 points, or 11.5 points), to impart sufficient stiffness without contributing excess disposable material.

[0043] The rear body portion 225 of the shell 207 has a larger cross-sectional dimension than the front body portion 209 when viewed in a plane normal to the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 102. A hump or bulge 227 imparts the larger cross-sectional area of the rear body portion 225 relative to the slender front body portion 209. Advantageously, the hump or bulge 227 enables the use of higher-volume formulation pouches 243A, 243B. Additionally, the hump or bulge 227 forms an abutment 231 which abuts a corresponding interior face of the handle portion 205 and secures the longitudinal position of the shell 207 during use.

[0044] The slender front body portion 209 of the shell 207 is sized to fit within the tray portion 219 of the handle portion 205 and to project into the cartridge cavity of the formulation delivery device during use. In some embodiments, the front body portion 209 couples with the valve frame 213. To facilitate secure connection and alignment with the valve frame 213, front body portion 209 includes valve frame coupling means, for example at least one coupling tab 237 configured to selectively engage the valve frame 213. In the illustrated embodiment, the front body portion 209 includes a single coupling tab 237 extending away from a front end thereof. The coupling tab 237 includes an engagement feature, for example a detent or raised prominence 239 shaped and sized to engage a complementary aperture 251 of the valve frame 213.

[0045] The body portion 209 may have many different configurations. For example, the illustrated body portion 209 is a clamshell configuration formed with at least two partial shells (in this embodiment, two halves 229A, 229B) coupled by a hinge, for example a living hinge integrally formed with the two halves. In some embodiments, the shell 219 includes a different number of partial shells, e.g., three or four partial shells which come together to enclose the formulation pouches 243A, 243B. Alignment of the halves 229A, 229B enables correct attachment of the front body portion 209 to the valve frame 213.

[0046] While the illustrated body 207 is formed of an injection molded paper material, this construction is representative, not limiting. In some embodiments, the body 207 is formed of a single piece of die-cut paper stock, which is folded to impart a three-dimensional structure having the rear body portion 225 and slender neck portion 209 extending away therefrom. In some such embodiments, this folded construction creates a polygonal cross section in the rear body portion 225 and a polygonal cross section in the front body portion 209 (for example, octagonal and hexagonal cross sections, respectively). To facilitate assembly, some such embodiments of the shell 207 include one or more scores or guidelines that ensure correct folding. Some embodiments have a triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, or other polygonal cross-sectional shape.

[0047] Optional packet sleeve 241 slides over the neck portion 209 and provides several important advantages. First, it imparts additional structure to the refill unit 201 by sliding over and reinforcing front body portion 209. Accordingly, in some embodiments, packet sleeve 241 has a greater weight or thickness as compared to the material that forms shell 207; although this is not required. In some embodiments, packet sleeve 241 is also formed of recyclable material, which may be the same material as the shell 207.

[0048] Second, in some embodiments, packet sleeve 241 couples with the valve frame 213. For example, the illustrated packet sleeve 241 includes a plurality of engagement member recesses 235 configured to reversibly couple with engagement members of the valve frame 213.

[0049] Third, packet sleeve 241 facilitates disassembly of the refill unit 201. In some embodiments, packet sleeve 241 includes an optional integral tearaway 235A formed thereon (e.g., a perforation with a pull tab). In other embodiments, the tearaway is formed on the neck portion 209 (see tearaway 235B). In use, after the formulation packets 243A, 243B are depleted, a user pulls the pull tab of integral tearaway 235A and/or 235B, thereby separating valve frame 213 from packet sleeve 241. Upon completion of this action, the packet sleeve 241 is recycled and the valve frame 213 is discarded. In some embodiments, the integral tearaway 836 is disposed on the shell 207, e.g., the front body portion 209.

[0050] Valve frame 213 provides a rigid structure which aligns the formulation pouch valves 215 for correct fluid interconnection with the fluid conduits of the formulation delivery device. Additionally, in some embodiments, valve frame 213 supports an optional encryption chip 211 as described above. In such embodiments, valve frame 213 is sized and shaped to accurately position the encryption chip 211 adjacent to the cartridge authentication interface of the formulation delivery device when the formulation cartridge 102 is disposed in the handle of the formulation delivery device. Accordingly, valve frame 213 is formed from ABS plastic, HDPE, or other rigid polymer or other material. In some embodiments, valve frame 213 is formed from a same material as shell 219.

[0051] A plurality of valve engagement units 217 extend through a front end of the valve frame 213. Each valve engagement unit 217 receives and secures one of the formulation pouch valves 215. In some embodiments, the valve engagement unit 217 is a valve aperture or cutout disposed through a face of the valve frame 213, the valve aperture or cutout being sized to receive a valve of a formulation pouch and optionally to engage an outer circumference of the valve. To enable coupling with the packet sleeve 241 (or shell 207 in some embodiments), valve frame 213 includes optional engagement members 249 (e.g., tabs) extending therefrom. In some embodiments, valve frame 213 engages with the front body portion 209 by a friction fit.

[0052] Encryption chip 211 (e.g., an RFID tag) is disposed on the refill unit 201, e.g., on the body portion 207 or on the valve frame 213 (as in the illustrated embodiment). The encryption chip 211 is positioned on the refill unit 201 such that when the formulation cartridge 102 is inserted into the formulation delivery device, it is positioned to be read by the cartridge authentication interface thereof. Accordingly, the encryption chip 211 stores information about the formulation cartridge 102 and its contents, for example at least one of a formulation identification, a beginning formulation quantity, a formulation expiration date, or a formulation production date.

[0053] Thus, the body 207, formulation pouches 243A, 243B, valve frame 213, and optional packet sleeve 241 form the refill unit 201. In use, refill unit 201 is reversibly couplable with handle portion 205, e.g., by securing means such as coupling tabs on the shell 207 or by friction fit between the refill unit 201 and the handle portion 205.

[0054] FIGS. 4A-4D show example releases of a formula cartridge 102, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, due to the nature of developer hair formula (which may be the first formulation, the second formulation, or both as described herein), the formula cartridge 102 may need to be degassed. Hair developers may contain oxidizing agents that can release fumes when mixed with hair color formulas. When small amounts of the hair developer and the hair dye are mixed and let to sit, such as after a user applies the hair dye and hair developer, gas may be released. Further, if hair developer is left sitting inside of the formula cartridge 102, gas may build up inside the formula cartridge 102.

[0055] Accordingly, in some embodiments, the formula cartridge 102 may include a hump or bulge 227, made up of halves 229A, 229B, and two valves 215A, 215B. Disposed on the hump 227 is a release 223.

[0056] In operation, as shown in FIG. 4B, when the release 223 is pressed, depressed, lifted, opened, contacted, or otherwise manipulated, gas G created by the hair developer, may be degassed. In this manner, a user or a device (such as device 100) may release the gas G from the formula cartridge 223 either on demand or periodically, to avoid expelling gas G from the device when trying to apply the hair developer. Not degassing the formula cartridge 102 could result in gas G being dispensed from the hair developer formula cartridge 102, while hair dye may be dispensed from another formula cartridge (such as shown in FIG. 3). This may result in the ratio of hair developer and hair dye changing, which could decrease the efficacy of the hair dye, create unwanted streaks in a user's hair, or the like. Accordingly, the release 223 ensures that gas G is not dispensed by the formula cartridge 102 when the user is attempting to apply hair developer (or any formulation that may off-gas) and ensure the ratio between the hair developer and hair dye is correct.

[0057] In some embodiments, the release 223 may be located on the lower half 229B of the formula cartridge 102, as shown in FIG. 4C. In yet other embodiments, the release 223 may be located on a rear portion (or bottom) 225 of the formula cartridge 102, as shown in FIG. 4D. While FIGS. 4A-4D show representative locations of the release 223, it should be understood that the release 223 may be located anywhere on the formula cartridge 102. Further, in some embodiments, multiple releases 223 may be located on the formula cartridge 102.

[0058] The release 223 is illustrated as having a half-oval shape, but it should be understood that the release 223 may have any shape. In some embodiments, the release 223 is configured to open outwards, as shown in FIG. 4B. In other embodiments, the release 223 is configured to open inwards, as shown in FIG. 5C. In some embodiments, the release 223 may be configured to swing both inwards and outwards.

[0059] FIGS. 5A-5C are process diagrams of degassing a formula cartridge, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the handle portion 205 of the formula cartridge 102 includes a protrusion 300, internal to the handle portion 205, as shown in FIGS. 5A-5C. In some embodiments, the handle portion 205 is configured to retain and/or surround the body portion 227.

[0060] In some embodiments, the protrusion 300 is configured to apply pressure onto the release 223 when the body portion 227 is inserted into the handle portion 205. In some embodiments, the pressure degasses the body portion 227 of the formulation pouch, such as by expelling gas G as shown in FIG. 5C. In some embodiments, when the body portion 227 is retained in the handle 205, the protrusion 300 is in contact with the release 223, that is, the release 223 is always suppressed, and capable of expelling gas G from the formulation cartridge. In other embodiments, the protrusion 300 may be in contact with the release 223 only while the formula cartridge is being inserted into the handle 205. That is, the release 223 may be pressed for only a moment as the formula cartridge is inserted into the handle 205, and when the formula cartridge is fully retained within the handle 205, the release 223 may be closed.

[0061] In some embodiments, the protrusion 300 may be triangular. In some embodiments, the protrusion 300 is located on a side of the handle 205 (as shown in FIGS. 5A-5C). In some embodiments, the protrusion 300 may be located on a bottom of the handle 205, as shown in FIG. 6C.

[0062] In some embodiments, when the release 223 is contacted or pressed by the protrusion 300, and opening O is formed in the body portion 227 of the formula cartridge.

[0063] In some embodiments, the formula cartridge includes one or more valves (such as valve 215 and/or valves 215A, 215B) configured to purge the gas G emitted from the release 223.

[0064] FIGS. 6A-6D are example handle portions, in accordance with the present technology. The protrusion 300 (as shown in FIGS. 5A-5C) may take any number of forms. Representative protrusions are illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6D.

[0065] In some embodiments, the protrusion is a bump 301, as shown in FIG. 6A. In some embodiments, the bump 301 may be located on a first side (or first internal side) S1 of the handle 205. One skilled in the art will recognize that in other embodiments, the bump 301 may be located on a second side (or second internal side) S2 of the handle 205.

[0066] In some embodiments, the protrusion is a spring 310, as shown in FIG. 6B. While the spring 310 is located on a first internal side S1 of the handle 205, it should be understood that the spring 310 may be located on the second internal side S2. In some embodiments, the spring 310 includes a coil 302 and a platform 303. In some embodiments, the spring 310 includes only a coil 302. In some embodiments, the spring 310 is selected from a compression spring, a leaf spring, or a molded spring.

[0067] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, the formulation cartridge includes a valve (such as valve 215, valves 215A, 215B, or a combination thereof) configured to purge gas emitted from a release (such as release 223). In some embodiments, the valve is force balanced to the spring 310.

[0068] In some embodiments, the wherein a protrusion 304 is located on a bottom of the handle portion 205, as shown in FIG. 6C. In some embodiments, the protrusion 304 is triangular, but in other embodiments, the protrusion 304 may be a bump, such as shown in FIG. 6A. In some embodiments, protrusion 304 may be included when the release (such as release 223) is located on a rear portion of the body of the formula cartridge, as shown in FIG. 4D. In some embodiments, the protrusion 304 may be used in combination with any of the protrusions 300, 301, 310, 305A, 305B as shown and described herein.

[0069] In some embodiments, the protrusion is a first protrusion 305A, and the handle portion 205 further includes a second protrusion 305B. In some embodiments, the first protrusion 305A is located on a first internal side S1 of the handle portion 205, and the second protrusion 305B located on a second internal side S2 of the handle portion 205, opposite the first internal side S1.

[0070] FIG. 7 is a method 700 of degassing a formula cartridge, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the method 700 is carried out with a device (such as device 100) including a formulation cartridge (such as formula cartridge 102). In some embodiments, the formulation cartridge includes a body portion (such as body portion 227) including a hump or bulge, and two halves (such as halves 229A, 229B). In some embodiments, the formulation cartridge further includes a handle portion (such as handle 204). Internal to the handle portion may be a protrusion (such as protrusions 300, 301, 310, 304, 305A, 305B). In some embodiments, the formula cartridge further includes a release (such as release 223) configured to release gas (such as gas G). The release may be located on a body portion of the formulation cartridge, including on a rear portion (such as rear portion 225), either of the halves, or the hump or bulge of the formulation cartridge. In some embodiments, the formulation cartridge further includes one or more valves (such as valves 215, 215A, 215B) to further release the gas.

[0071] In block 705, one or more formula pouches (such as formulation pouches 243A, 243B) are placed into the body portion of the formula cartridge.

[0072] In block 710, the body portion is inserted into the handle portion.

[0073] In block 715, the protrusion inside the handle portion contacts the release on the body portion or rear portion of the formulation cartridge. An example of this is shown in FIG. 5C. The protrusion may be triangular, a bump, or a spring. In some embodiments, the protrusion may be first protrusion and a second protrusion.

[0074] In block 720, pressure is applied to the release with the protrusion.

[0075] In block 725, the formula cartridge may be degassed. In some embodiments, the gas may be purged from the formula cartridge through an opening (such as opening O) formed in the body of the formula cartridge when pressure is applied to the release.

[0076] Optionally, in block 730, the gas is purged from the release with the valve of the formulation cartridge. In some embodiments, when the protrusion is a spring (such as spring 310), the valve is force balanced with the protrusion.

[0077] It should be understood that method 700 should be interpreted as merely representative. In some embodiments, process blocks of method 700 may be performed simultaneously, sequentially, in a different order, or even omitted, without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0078] While illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0079] The present application may reference quantities and numbers. Unless specifically stated, such quantities and numbers are not to be considered restrictive, but representative of the possible quantities or numbers associated with the present application. Also, in this regard, the present application may use the term plurality to reference a quantity or number. In this regard, the term plurality is meant to be any number that is more than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The terms about, approximately, near, etc., mean plus or minus 5% of the stated value. For the purposes of the present disclosure, the phrase at least one of A, B, and C, for example, means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C), including all further possible permutations when greater than three elements are listed.

[0080] Embodiments disclosed herein may utilize circuitry in order to implement technologies and methodologies described herein, operatively connect two or more components, generate information, determine operation conditions, control an appliance, device, or method, and/or the like. Circuitry of any type can be used. In an embodiment, circuitry includes, among other things, one or more computing devices such as a processor (e.g., a microprocessor), a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or the like, or any combinations thereof, and can include discrete digital or analog circuit elements or electronics, or combinations thereof.

[0081] An embodiment includes one or more data stores that, for example, store instructions or data. Non-limiting examples of one or more data stores include volatile memory (e.g., Random Access memory (RAM), Dynamic Random Access memory (DRAM), or the like), non-volatile memory (e.g., Read-Only memory (ROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only memory (EEPROM), Compact Disc Read-Only memory (CD-ROM), or the like), persistent memory, or the like. Further non-limiting examples of one or more data stores include Erasable Programmable Read-Only memory (EPROM), flash memory, or the like. The one or more data stores can be connected to, for example, one or more computing devices by one or more instructions, data, or power buses.

[0082] In an embodiment, circuitry includes a computer-readable media drive or memory slot configured to accept signal-bearing medium (e.g., computer-readable memory media, computer-readable recording media, or the like). In an embodiment, a program for causing a system to execute any of the disclosed methods can be stored on, for example, a computer-readable recording medium (CRMM), a signal-bearing medium, or the like. Non-limiting examples of signal-bearing media include a recordable type medium such as any form of flash memory, magnetic tape, floppy disk, a hard disk drive, a Compact Disc (CD), a Digital Video Disk (DVD), Blu-Ray Disc, a digital tape, a computer memory, or the like, as well as transmission type medium such as a digital and/or an analog communication medium (e.g., a fiber optic cable, a waveguide, a wired communications link, a wireless communication link (e.g., transmitter, receiver, transceiver, transmission logic, reception logic, etc.). Further non-limiting examples of signal-bearing media include, but are not limited to, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD+RW, DVD-RW, DVD-R, DVD+R, CD-ROM, Super Audio CD, CD-R, CD+R, CD+RW, CD-RW, Video Compact Discs, Super Video Discs, flash memory, magnetic tape, magneto-optic disk, MINIDISC, non-volatile memory card, EEPROM, optical disk, optical storage, RAM, ROM, system memory, web server, or the like.

[0083] The detailed description set forth above in connection with the appended drawings, where like numerals reference like elements, are intended as a description of various embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is provided merely as an example or illustration and should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Similarly, any steps described herein may be interchangeable with other steps, or combinations of steps, in order to achieve the same or substantially similar result. Generally, the embodiments disclosed herein are non-limiting, and the inventors contemplate that other embodiments within the scope of this disclosure may include structures and functionalities from more than one specific embodiment shown in the figures and described in the specification.

[0084] In the foregoing description, specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments disclosed herein may be practiced without embodying all the specific details. In some instances, well-known process steps have not been described in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of the present disclosure. Further, it will be appreciated that embodiments of the present disclosure may employ any combination of features described herein.

[0085] The present application may include references to directions, such as vertical, horizontal, front, rear, left, right, top, and bottom, etc. These references, and other similar references in the present application, are intended to assist in helping describe and understand the particular embodiment (such as when the embodiment is positioned for use) and are not intended to limit the present disclosure to these directions or locations.

[0086] The present application may also reference quantities and numbers. Unless specifically stated, such quantities and numbers are not to be considered restrictive, but exemplary of the possible quantities or numbers associated with the present application. Also, in this regard, the present application may use the term plurality to reference a quantity or number. In this regard, the term plurality is meant to be any number that is more than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The term about, approximately, etc., means plus or minus 5% of the stated value. The term based upon means based at least partially upon.

[0087] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of the present disclosure have been described in the foregoing description. However, aspects of the present disclosure, which are intended to be protected, are not to be construed as limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Further, the embodiments described herein are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. It will be appreciated that variations and changes may be made by others, and equivalents employed, without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such variations, changes, and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as claimed.