Enhanced dispensing and dosaging techniques for fluid containers

Abstract

In various embodiments, the invention provides enhanced structures, devices, and techniques that allow fluids and liquid products, such as cosmetics, to dispense in a more even, smoother, and more predictable manner from fluid containers.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . An apparatus for dispensing fluid, the apparatus comprising:
 a fluid repository in fluid communication with a nozzle, wherein the nozzle includes at least one dispensing orifice formed therein;   a plug positioned within at least a portion of the interior of the nozzle, the plug comprising:   a. an inflow region,   b. an outflow region, and   c. a constriction region positioned between the inflow region and the outflow region establishing a two-way pathway for fluid communication between the inflow region and the outflow region; and,   wherein the plug is structured to create a pathway for communicating fluid from the fluid repository to the dispensing orifice upon application of a threshold fluid pressure.   
     
     
         2 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , further comprising a retaining ridge formed in at least a portion of the interior of the nozzle. 
     
     
         3 . The apparatus of  claim 2 , wherein the plug further includes a retaining segment structured for correspondingly mating with at least a portion of the retaining ridge of the nozzle. 
     
     
         4 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the outflow region of the plug is positioned for direct contact and fluid communication with the dispensing orifice. 
     
     
         5 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein at least one cross-sectional area of the constriction region is structured in response to a fluid viscosity. 
     
     
         6 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein at least one volumetric space defined by the constriction region is structured in response to a fluid viscosity. 
     
     
         7 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the plug is structured to communicate fluid therethrough at a threshold fluid pressure not exceeding a pressure applied to the fluid repository. 
     
     
         8 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the plug is structured to communicate fluid therethrough at a threshold fluid pressure independent of a pressure applied to the fluid repository. 
     
     
         9 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the plug comprises a tube-shaped portion and the constriction region comprises a crimped segment formed at a location between the inflow region and the outflow region. 
     
     
         10 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the plug comprises an elastomeric material.