TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Present disclosure relates to a dispenser, and more particularly, to a wearable dispenser configured to be worn directly onto a hand or over a glove donned by a user for dispensing a fluid.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] Personal hygiene has become increasingly prevalent in our modem society. One of the techniques employed for maintaining personal hygiene is hand hygiene. Hand hygiene is a method used for preventing transfer of infections through contact. Hand washing with soap or any other suitable detergent and application of a hand sanitizer are the most commonly used means for achieving hand hygiene. Alternatively, gloves are also worn for achieving hand hygiene. Gloves are adapted to protect hands of a user from external contact or damage such as but not limiting to bacterial infection, viral infection, industrial damage or any other pathogen, thereby preventing any contact or damage to the underlying skin of the hand.

[0003] While, the underlying skin is protected by the gloves, the surface of the gloves themselves is not sanitized after each potential contact during use, resulting in concentration of pathogens or harmful bacteria on the surface. The concentration of harmful bacteria on the gloves may easily come in contact with the user, particularly on skin or nails during removal or handling of the glove. Additionally, according to Center for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], hand hygiene prior to donning the gloves and after removal is a must, since gloves are not a substitute for hand hygiene. As such, a glove is required to be decontaminated to ensure that any bacteria or virus or pathogens do not spill over to the skin during instances such as touching a face mask with gloved hands or touching spectacles, eyes, hair and the like.

[0004] To overcome the aforementioned problems associated with use of gloves, hand hygiene may be maintained by the conventional hand washing technique with soap and water for 20 seconds along with application of a sanitizer till it dries. However, such an alternative may not be a viable option, if the user does not have access to running water and a sink or basin, required for hand washing. [0005] In order to overcome the aforementioned limitations, wearable dispensers are developed. The wearable dispensers are capable of being worn on wrist of the user or any other user accessory. The dispensers are configured to dispense sanitizing agents or liquids onto the user’s hand during requirement. One such dispenser is disclosed in US20080251539A1 [hereinafter referred to as ‘539’ application]. The dispenser in ‘539’ application is of a wristband type that includes a bracelet capable of being worn on the wrist and a dispenser attached to the bracelet. A chamber is coupled to a source for receiving the disinfecting material. A pump is coupled to the chamber, which upon actuation creates vacuum in the chamber, causing the dispensing material to enter the chamber. However, the dispenser disclosed in ‘539’ application, cannot be worn directly on the gloves, making the wearing process tedious. The ‘539’ application also requires actuation of the pump via other hand which may be still contaminated and creating a multi-touch system which is undesirable, particularly in a sterile environment. Additionally, the nozzle in ‘539’ application is provided on the wrist, which may dispense the fluid in areas other than the palm portion, resulting in wastage. Further, it may be inconvenient to the user to repeatedly use the alternative hand for actuating the pump for dispensing the disinfecting material.

[0006] Another such wearable hand sanitizer dispenser is disclosed in US20170156454A1 [hereinafter referred to as ‘454’ application]. In ‘454’ application the wearable dispenser includes a wristband wearable about the user’s wrist. A reservoir in the wristband holds the sanitizing fluid. An outlet nozzle selectively dispenses a predetermined quantity of the sanitizing fluid. A dispensing assembly is situated intermediate the outlet nozzle and the reservoir and is in communication with the reservoir for selectively dispensing the sanitizer fluid from the reservoir to a place outside the wristband. A first actuator is normally biased to an unactuated configuration but, when actuated, allows the sanitizer fluid to pass through the dispensing assembly to the outlet nozzle. A second actuator in communication with the first actuator is normally biased to an unactuated configuration that prevents the first actuator from being actuated but, when actuated, allows the first actuator to be actuated to allow sanitizer fluid to pass through the dispensing assembly to the outlet nozzle. However, the wearable dispenser in ‘454’ application also cannot be worn directly on the gloves, making the wearing process tedious. Also, the dispenser in ‘454’ application is worn in an unconventional location which requires the user to use another hand for dispensing the sanitizer, which may affect the sanitization of the hand glove, particularly in sterile surroundings and also may be an inconvenience to the user for use. Additionally, the nozzle in ‘454’ application is provided on the wrist, which may dispense the fluid in areas other than the palm portion, resulting in wastage.

[0007] In light of the foregoing discussion, a wearable dispenser is required which can overcome the limitations stated above, in addition to providing other technical advantages.

[0008] The information disclosed in this background of the disclosure section is only for enhancement of understanding of the general background of the invention and should not be taken as an acknowledgment that this information forms the prior art already known to a person skilled in the art.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0009] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a wearable dispenser capable of being worn directly onto a hand of a user or over a glove donned by the user.

[00010] Embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a wearable dispenser including a frame member mountable onto a hand of a user. A dispensing mechanism is mounted to the frame member and fluidly coupled to a receptacle. The dispensing mechanism is configured to dispense a fluid stored in the receptacle onto a palm portion of the hand. At least one actuator is coupled to the dispensing mechanism and located on the hand such that, each actuator is operable between a first position and a second position by one or more digits of the hand. Operation of the actuator between the first position and the second position via the one or more digits actuates the dispensing mechanism to dispense the fluid from the receptacle onto the palm portion.

[00011] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the wearable dispenser is disclosed. The dispenser includes the C-shaped member mounted onto the hand of the user having a first portion mounted on a back portion of the hand, a second portion mounted on the palm portion of the hand and a third portion. The third portion connects the first portion and the second portion to form a C-shaped structure. The third portion traverses at least one web portion of the hand for connecting the first portion and the second portion. A dispensing mechanism is mounted on one of the first portion, the second portion and the third portion and fluidly coupled to the receptacle. The dispensing mechanism is configured to dispense the fluid stored in the receptacle. The actuator is coupled to the dispensing mechanism and is located on the hand such that, each actuator is operable between the first position and the second position by the one or more digits of the hand. Operation of the actuator between the first position and the second position via the one or more digits actuates the dispensing mechanism to dispense the fluid from the receptacle. Further, a nozzle member is mounted onto the second portion and fluidly coupled with the dispensing mechanism. The nozzle member is coupled to the actuator for actuating the dispensing mechanism to dispense the fluid onto the palm portion. The dispensing mechanism is actuated when the nozzle member is operated between the rest position and the engaged position via one or more digits of the hand.

[00012] In another embodiment of the present disclosure the wearable dispenser is disclosed. The dispenser including the C-shaped member mounted onto the hand of the user having the first portion mounted on the back portion of the hand, the second portion mounted on the palm portion of the hand and the third portion. The third portion connects the first portion and the second portion to form a C-shaped structure. The third portion traverses at least one web portion of the hand for connecting the first portion and the second portion. The dispensing mechanism is mounted on one of the first portion, the second portion and the third portion and fluidly coupled to the receptacle. The dispensing mechanism is configured to dispense the fluid stored in the receptacle onto the palm portion of the hand. The actuator is coupled to the dispensing mechanism and is located on the hand such that, each actuator is operable between the first position and the second position by the digits of the hand. Operation of the actuator between the first position and the second position via the one or more digits actuates the dispensing mechanism to dispense the fluid from the receptacle. Further, the nozzle member is provided in the dispenser. The nozzle member includes a nozzle body defining a compartment and mounted to the second portion. The compartment is fluidly coupled to the dispensing mechanism via duct for storing the fluid dispensed therefrom. A plurality of apertures are defined on the nozzle body and configured to disperse the stored fluid onto the palm portion upon actuation of the dispensing mechanism. A nozzle element is mounted on the nozzle body and coupled to the actuator for actuating the dispensing mechanism, wherein the dispensing mechanism is actuated to dispense fluid onto the palm portion when the nozzle element is operated between the rest position and the engaged position via the one or more digits.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

[00013] The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following description of illustrative embodiment (s) when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

[00014] Fig. la is a perspective view of a wearable dispenser worn on a hand of a user, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00015] Fig. lb is a bottom view of Fig. la, depicting the position of a nozzle assembly on the hand, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00016] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the wearable dispenser worn on a glove donned by the user, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00017] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a frame member of the wearable dispenser, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00018] Fig. 4a is a sectional view of the wearable dispenser depicting a dispensing mechanism mounted on the frame member, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00019] Figs. 4b and 4c is a sectional view of the wearable dispenser depicting the dispensing mechanism fluidly coupled to the nozzle assembly, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; [00020] Fig. 5 is an exploded view of the dispensing mechanism, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00021] Fig. 6a is a perspective view of the nozzle assembly in a rest position, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00022] Fig. 6b is a perspective view of the nozzle assembly in an engaged position, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00023] Figs. 7a and 7b are schematic views of the wearable dispenser, in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00024] Figs. 8a and 8b are schematic views of the wearable dispenser, in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00025] Figs. 9a and 9b are schematic views of the wearable dispenser, in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00026] Figs. 10a and 10b are schematic views of the wearable dispenser, in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00027] Figs. I la and 11b are schematic views of the wearable dispenser, in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00028] Figs. 12a and 12b are schematic views of the wearable dispenser, in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[00029] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the wearable dispenser, in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00030] The drawings referred to in this description are not to be understood as being drawn to scale except if specifically noted, and such drawings are only exemplary in nature. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00031] In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the present disclosure can be practiced without these specific details.

[00032] Reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appearance of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but not for other embodiments.

[00033] Moreover, the following description contains many specifics for the purposes of illustration, anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that many variations and/or alterations to said details are within the scope of the present disclosure. Similarly, although many of the features of the present disclosure are described in terms of each other, or in conjunction with each other, one skilled in the art will appreciate that many of these features can be provided independently of other features. Accordingly, this description of the present disclosure is set forth without any loss of generality to, and without imposing limitations upon the present disclosure.

[00034] The term ‘user’ used herein throughout the disclosure may refer to a person donning a glove or a person using a fluid dispensed from the dispenser of the present invention.

[00035] The term ‘fluid’ used herein throughout the disclosure may refer to agents which may be a gas or a liquid that is used for maintaining personal hygiene of the user. In an embodiment, the ‘fluid’ may be an alcohol based sanitizer such as a sanitizing liquid or a sanitizing gel, or any other fluid which decontaminates unwanted microorganisms. Alternatively, the ‘fluid’ may be a baby cream, a hair dye, a lotion, a soap or any other material that is used for maintaining personal hygiene of the user.

[00036] The term ‘palm portion’ used herein throughout the disclosure may interchangeably refer to a palm of a glove or a hand, as the wearable dispenser of the present disclosure is capable of being worn on the glove donned by the user or directly on hand of the user, as per requirement.

[00037] The term ‘actuator’ used herein throughout the disclosure may be a lever extending from the dispenser that enables operation of a dispensing mechanism upon actuation.

[00038] Further, references or statements made in specification pertaining to the hand of the user for mounting the dispenser may interchangeably adapted on to the glove donned by the user, until and otherwise specified. In other words, references made to hand of the user may interchangeably adapted onto the glove donned by the user. As such, a single reference to the hand is maintained in the disclosure for enhancing readability.

[00039] Figs, la and lb discloses perspective and bottom views of a wearable dispenser (100) worn over a hand (102) of a user in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The dispenser (100) may be worn directly on the hand (102) for use or over a glove (104) donned by the user [as shown in Fig. 2], in case the user wishes to use the dispenser (100) along with the glove (104). The dispenser (100) is configured to dispense a fluid that facilitates the user to maintain personal hygiene. The fluid may also facilitate to sanitize or decontaminate the hand (102) or the glove (104) of the user readily, upon application. The dispenser (100) may be worn on either on the hand (102) or over the glove (104) such that, a single handed use is facilitated. As such, the need for using another hand to dispense the fluid from the dispenser (100) for personal hygiene or hand sanitization is mitigated. Thus, unintended contact of the contaminated hand or gloves (104) at germ points and maneuvering of other hand for dispensing the fluid is prevented, thereby enabling personal hygiene while also enhancing hand sanitization. Consequently, personal hygiene is maintained, thereby preventing transfer of infections. [00040] Referring to Fig. 3 in conjunction with Fig. la, Fig. lb and Fig. 2, the dispenser (100) comprises a frame member (106) adapted to be mounted onto the hand (102) directly or over the glove (104) donned by the user. The frame member (106) acts as a foundation structure of the dispenser (100) and is configured to support the components thereof. The frame member (106) may be configured to be a C-shaped member that can be directly mounted onto the glove (104) or the hand (102) of the user, without the need for fastening members such as straps or buckles and the like.

[00041] The C-shaped member includes a first portion (108) that is adapted to be mounted on a back portion (110) of the hand (102). The first portion (108) may be configured to be a plate-like structure capable of supporting a dispensing mechanism (112) [for e.g. as shown in Figs. 4a-4c] thereon. The plate-like structure may be configured with a surface area required for providing optimal support to the dispensing mechanism (112) during use. Such a configuration may also prevent misalignment of the dispensing mechanism (112) on the frame member (106) during use.

[00042] Further, the first portion (108) may include a proximal end (108a) and a distal end (108b). The proximal end (108a) may be located at vicinity of at least one web portion (114) of the hand (102) and the distal end (108b) may be located away from the web portion (114), when the first portion (108) is mounted on the hand (102) of the user. In an embodiment, the surface of the first portion (108) may be tapered in configuration, wherein the distal end (108b) may be configured with a larger dimension than the proximal end (108a). Such a construction of the first portion (108) provides optimum support and stability to the dispensing mechanism (112) mounted thereon, while also enhancing ergonomics of the dispenser (100) during use.

[00043] The first portion (108) may also be made from flexible materials such as but not limiting to elastomeric materials or composite materials, as per design feasibility and requirement. The shape and dimensions of the first portion (108) may also be selected based on size of the user’s hand, particularly, size of the back portion (110) of the hand (102), for ease of usability of the dispenser (100) and comfort. As an example, the surface of the first portion (108) may conform to the size of the back portion (110) of the user’s hand, while the thickness may be selected as per requirement and user’s comfort. [00044] Further, the C-shaped member includes a second portion (116) that is mountable onto a palm portion (118) [for e.g. as shown in Fig. lb]. The second portion (116) may be aligned parallelly to the first portion (108). The second portion (116) may act as a support structure for a nozzle member (120) [for e.g. as shown in Fig. lb] that is configured to dispensing the fluid onto the palm portion (118). In an embodiment, the second portion (116) may be mounted with the nozzle member (120) or one or more ducts (140) which would be described in detail in description pertaining to Figs. 4, Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b.

[00045] The C-shaped member further includes a third portion (124) that connects the first portion (108) and the second portion (116) to form a C-shaped structure, which may be alternatively termed as a fork shaped structure. The third portion (124) has a first end (124a) coupled to the proximal end (108a) of the first portion (108), while a second end (124b) is coupled to the second portion (116). The third portion (124) traverses the web portion (114) of the hand (102). Such a construction of the third portion (124) ensures support to the frame member (106) from one or more digits (126) of the hand (102). Thus, the C-shaped member may be snuggly fitted onto the hand (102) of the user directly without the need for conventional fastening techniques and thus act as a clamp. Also, the support provided by the digits (126) prevents misalignment of the frame member (106) during use. The third portion (124) also provides structural rigidity to the frame member (106) by connecting the first portion (108) and the second portion (116).

[00046] In an embodiment, the third portion (124) may traverse web portion (114) between the thumb and index digits of the hand (102). Alternatively, the third portion (124) may extend via the web portion (114) between any digits of the user’s hand (102). That is, the third portion (124) may extend via the web portion (114) between any of an index digit, a middle digit, a ring digit and the little digit of the user’s hand (102). Also, each of the first portion (108), the second portion (116) and the third portion (124) may be made of flexible materials, so that the C-shaped structure or fork-like structure may be deformed suitably to fit the user’s hand (102).

[00047] Further, the third portion (124) may be a hollow structure that may be configured to receive and support the dispensing mechanism (112) [not shown in Figures]. Also, the dimensions of the third portion (124) may be selected based on the web portion (114) on which it traverses. The dimensions of the third portion (124) may also be selected based on the dimensions of the dispensing mechanism (112) to be enclosed. Such a construction enhances user’s comfort while wearing the dispenser (100) onto the hand (102). Alternatively, the configuration of the third portion (124) may be selected based on the size of the hand (102) or the glove (104), as per user requirement.

[00048] In an embodiment, for the purpose of readability and understanding, the C- shaped member is segregated into the first portion (108), the second portion (116) and the third portion (124). Accordingly, the C-shaped member may be a single piece structure [i.e. a unitary structure] or an assembled structure of the first portion (108), the second portion (116) and the third portion (124) to form the C-shaped member.

[00049] Referring now to Figs. 4a-4c, the dispensing mechanism (112) is mounted on the frame member (106) via conventional fastening techniques known in the art such as fastening, snap-fitting, brazing and the like. Alternatively, the dispensing mechanism (112) may be mounted on one of the first portion (108), the second portion (116) and the third portion (124) of the C-shaped member. The dispensing mechanism (112) may be oriented longitudinally along the length of the first portion (108) or in any other orientation as per feasibility and requirement. The dispensing mechanism (112) is coupled to a receptacle (128) containing a fluid, via a pipe (130) [for e.g. as shown in Fig. la]. The dispensing mechanism (112) upon actuation is configured to receive fluid from the receptacle (128) and dispense the received fluid onto the palm portion (118), which will be explained in detail in the description pertaining to Figs. 6a and 6b. The receptacle (128) may be a container or a pouch configured to store the fluid required for personal hygiene of the user. The receptacle (128) may be mounted on an arm of the user, or on the hand or within the glove (104) or on the glove (104) any other location as per design feasibility and requirement. The receptacle (128) may also include an inlet port [for e.g. referenced as (802) shown in Fig. 8a] to enable refilling of the fluid therein.

[00050] In an embodiment, the dispensing mechanism (112) mounted on the third portion (124) may be aligned vertically or parallelly to the orientation of the third portion (124). Such an orientation of the dispensing mechanism (112) may increase the dispensing rate of the fluid received from the receptacle (128) with minimal effort. The increase in the dispensing rate may be due to effect of gravity on the dispensing mechanism (112). [00051] Further, a cover member (132) may enclose the dispensing mechanism (112) over the frame member (106). The cover member (132) may provide ingress protection to the dispensing mechanism (112). In an embodiment, the cover member (132) may include the receptacle (128) [not shown in Figures], and may be positioned adjacently to the dispensing mechanism (112). Such a configuration makes the dispenser (100) compact, facilitating usability.

[00052] The dispensing mechanism (112) is coupled to at least one actuator (134). Each actuator (134) is located or positioned on the hand (102) such that, they are operable between a first position (136) and a second position (138) via the one or more digits (126) of the hand (102) [for e.g. as shown in Fig. 4a]. Operation of the actuator (134) between the first position (136) and the second portion (138) correspondingly actuates the dispensing mechanism (112) to dispense the fluid from the receptacle (128) onto the palm portion (118). As an example, the movement of the actuator (134) in the configuration illustrated in Fig. 4a is described in the direction A- A’. Alternatively, movement of the actuator between the first position (136) and the second position (138) may be a rotational movement as per design feasibility and requirement. The actuator (134) may be of a press-mechanism type or a push-button type, which will be explained in description pertaining to Figs. 12a and 12b. One or more ducts (140) [for e.g. as shown in Fig. 4b] are fluidly coupled with the dispensing mechanism (112). Each duct (140) has a first end (140a) coupled to the dispensing mechanism (112) and a second end (140b) that may be positioned or located on the palm portion (118). The duct (140) may allow air into the dispensing mechanism (112) or discharge the fluid received from the receptacle (128) on the palm portion (118) upon actuation or movement of the actuator (134). Alternatively, the actuator (134) may include a slot [not shown in Figures] to allow air into the dispensing mechanism (112), thereby generating a pressure difference therein to enable flow of fluid from the receptacle (128) to the dispensing mechanism (112). In such scenario, a channel [not shown in Figures] formed within the actuator (134) couples with the slot, to act as the duct (140). The slot may also enable to discharge the fluid received from the receptacle (128) upon movement of the actuator (134).

[00053] Referring to Fig. 5 in conjunction with Figs. 4a-4c, the dispensing mechanism the user, is coupled to a piston (142) disposed within a chamber (144), via a piston rod (146). The piston rod (146) is configured with an orifice [not shown in Figures], which communicably couples with the chamber (144), when the piston rod (146) moves within the chamber (144), due to movement of the actuator (134) to the second position (138). A closure member (148) may be provided to restrict movement of the actuator (134) at the second position (134). Also, the closure member (148) may receive the duct (140) which is in fluid communication with the chamber (144). The chamber (144) also includes a damper member (150) and a ball element (152). A dip pipe (154) is fluidically coupled to an opening [not shown in Figures] configured at an aft portion of the chamber (144). The dip pipe (154) is in fluid communication with the receptacle (128), for routing the fluid from the receptacle (128) to the chamber (144) upon movement of the actuator (134).

[00054] In an operational embodiment, the actuator (134) is operated to the second position (138) from the first position (136) [for e.g. as shown in Fig. 4a], thereby drawing in atmospheric air into the chamber (144), via the duct (140) that may be directly positioned on the palm portion (118) or in the nozzle member (120). At this stage, the piston rod (146) and the piston (142) move towards the opening in the chamber (144). Due to the pressure exerted by the piston (142) within the chamber (144), the ball element (152) blocks the opening. The pressure within the chamber (144) subsequently decreases, since the air collected within the chamber (144) escapes through the orifice configured on the piston rod (146). While the pressure is decreasing in the chamber (144), the damper member (150) exerts a biasing force onto the piston (142) in a reverse direction, thereby operating the actuator (134) from the second position (138) to the first position (136). During reverse movement of the piston (142), the ball element (150) unblocks the opening and a suction force is generated within the chamber (144), which draws-in the fluid from the receptacle (128). The drawn fluid may get stored within the chamber (144).

[00055] In this scenario, when the actuator (134) is further operated to the second position (138), the pressure in the chamber (144) is increased. At this juncture, air tries to escape from the chamber (144), during which the fluid also accompanies the air, thereby dispensing of the fluid via the duct (140).

[00056] In an embodiment, the actuator (134) may be located proximal to the web portion (114), optionally between the web portion (114) of a thumb digit and an index digit of the hand, while the outlet of the duct (140) being positioned on a palm portion (118). The duct (140) may extend through the third portion (124) via a slot (124c) configured therein, so as to be positioned or located on the palm portion (118). As such, the second end (140b) of the duct (140) may extend up to the palm portion (118), to facilitate dispensing of the fluid on the palm portion (118) directly [for e.g. as shown in Fig. 4b]. Such a construction ensures that the user is able to operate the actuator (134) using the same hand, optionally via the thumb digit and directly dispense the fluid onto the palm portion (118) of the same hand via the duct (140). This mitigates issues pertaining to multi-touch points in a sterile environment, thereby reducing the infections arising therefrom.

[00057] Referring to Figs. 6a and 6b in conjunction with Figs. 4a-4c, the nozzle member (120) is mounted to the second portion (116) via conventional mounting techniques known in the art, such that the fluid is dispensed onto the palm portion (118). The nozzle member (120) may be configured to receive the fluid dispensed by the dispensing mechanism (120) and disperse the fluid onto the palm portion (118) of the hand (102). The nozzle member (120) may receive the fluid via the duct (140) that may be housed within the third portion (124) of the C-shaped member [for e.g. as shown in Fig. 4a]. As such, the fluid dispensed from the receptacle (128) is received by the nozzle member (120). In an embodiment, the nozzle member along with the first portion (108) and the third portion (124) may form a unitary structure and conform to the C-shaped structure or the fork-like structure. In an embodiment, the nozzle member (120) along with the first portion (108) and the third portion (124) of the C-shaped structure may be made of flexible materials, to enable the user to deform or flex the structure for accommodating onto the hand (102) of the user.

[00058] Further, the nozzle member (102) includes a nozzle body (156) mounted to the second portion (116) of the C-shaped member. The nozzle body (156) defines a compartment (158) [for e.g. illustrated in Fig. 4c] which is fluidly coupled to the dispensing mechanism (112) via the duct (140). The compartment (158) is configured to store the fluid dispensed by the dispensing mechanism (112), so that the fluid is readily available for dispensing upon requirement. The nozzle body (156) further includes a nozzle element (160), which may be operable between a rest position (162) and an engaged position (164) via the one or more digits (126). In an embodiment, the nozzle element (160) is telescopically actuated with respect to the nozzle body (156), during its movement between the rest position (162) and the engaged position (164). The nozzle element (160) is further coupled to the actuator (134). As such, operation of the nozzle element (160) between the rest position (162) and the engaged position (164) correspondingly operates the actuator (134) and hence the dispensing mechanism (112), thereby enabling dispensing of the fluid from the receptacle (128) onto the palm portion (118). In an embodiment, actuation of the nozzle element (160) when the fluid is stored in the compartment (158) dispenses the fluid from the compartment (158) due to the pressure exerted during the operation. At the same time, the dispensing mechanism (112) is also operated which dispenses the fluid into the compartment (158) and thus refill the compartment (158) with fluid.

[00059] Further, the nozzle element (160) may also be linked to the actuator (134) by a link member (166) [for e.g. as shown in Fig. 4a]. As an example, the link member (166) may extend from the nozzle member (120) provided at the second portion (116) of the C- shaped member up to the actuator (134) located at the web portion (114). Such a configuration of the nozzle member (120) and the actuator (134) ensures that actuation of either of the actuator (134) or the nozzle member (120) ensures actuation of the dispensing mechanism (112) for dispensing fluid form the receptacle (128) onto the palm portion (118). As such, configuration of the nozzle member (120), the actuator (134) and the dispensing mechanism (112) may be selectively considered as per design feasibility and requirement.

[00060] In an embodiment, the actuator (134) may also be coupled to the nozzle member (120) [for e.g. as shown in Fig. 4a]. Such a configuration enables movement of the actuator (134) upon actuation of the nozzle member (120) via the digits (126), consequently operating the dispensing mechanism (112).

[00061] Further, a plurality of apertures (168) are defined on the nozzle body (156). The apertures (168) are configured to disperse the fluid received from the dispensing mechanism (112) onto the palm portion (118). The apertures (168) are provided on the nozzle body (156) such that, they face the palm portion (118) of the user’s hand [for e.g. as shown in Fig. lb]. Such a construction ensures that the dispersed fluid impinges only onto the palm portion (118) of the user’s hand, thereby preventing spillage or wastage of fluid dispensed from the receptacle (128). The apertures (168) may be dimensioned suitably, based on the required dispensing rate of the fluid onto the palm portion (118).

[00062] In an operational embodiment, when the nozzle element (160) is operated to the engaged position (164) from the rest position (162) by the digits (126), atmospheric air is drawn into the chamber (144), via the apertures (168) and the duct (140). At this stage, the piston rod (146) and the piston (142) move towards the opening in the chamber (144). Due to the pressure exerted by the piston (142) within the chamber (144), the ball element (152) blocks the opening. The pressure within the chamber (144) subsequently decreases, as the air collected within the chamber (144) escapes through the orifice configured on the piston rod (146). While the pressure is decreasing in the chamber (144), the damper member (150) exerts a biasing force onto the piston (142) in reverse direction, thereby operating the actuator (134) from the second position (138) to the first position (136). During the reverse movement of the piston (142), a suction force is generated within the chamber, thereby drawing-in fluid from the receptacle (128). The drawn fluid gets stored within the chamber (144).

[00063] In this scenario, when the nozzle element (160) is further operated to the engaged position (164), the pressure in the chamber (144) is increased. At this juncture, the air tries to escape from the chamber (144), during which the fluid also accompanies the air, thereby dispensing of the fluid via the duct (140). The dispensed fluid may collect within the compartment (158), which gets dispersed via the apertures (168). As such, actuation of the nozzle element (160) operates the dispensing mechanism (112) via the actuator (134) to receive the fluid from the receptacle (128), which gets dispersed onto the palm portion (118) of the user’s hand (102).

[00064] In an embodiment, the second end (140b) of the duct (140) may be positioned directly on the palm portion (118) or between digits (126). Such a configuration of the duct (140) may be an open duct configuration, which facilitates direct dispensing of the fluid on the palm portion (118) from the receptacle (128).

[00065] In an embodiment, the frame member (106), the dispensing mechanism (112) and the receptacle (128) may be made of silicone material. [00066] Figs. 7a and 7b illustrate top and bottom views of a dispenser (700) mounted on the hand (102) of the user, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. The dispenser (700) depicted in Figs. 7a and 7b is an alternate embodiment of the dispenser (100). As such, the components with similar construction are represented with the corresponding reference numbers as already mentioned in Fig. la to Fig. 6b for ease of clarity. The corresponding components in Figs. 7a and 7b are adapted to function similar to the components described in Figs, la to Fig. 6b until and unless otherwise specified. As such, the embodiments and operation specified in description pertaining to Fig. la to Fig. 6b are selectively applicable as per feasibility and requirement.

[00067] The dispenser (700) includes the frame member (106) which is a strap member (706) configured to be mounted on a wrist portion (702) of the hand (102). The strap member (706) may be configured with a Velcro® strap, a buckle or any other fastening means, to enable mounting onto the wrist portion (702). The strap member (706) may include the dispensing mechanism (112) mounted on a front portion (704) of the hand. Also, the receptacle (128) is mounted on the strap member (706) and positioned on the front portion (704). The nozzle member (120) extends from the dispensing mechanism (112) via the duct (140), for receiving and dispensing the fluid therefrom onto the palm portion (118) of the hand (102). In this configuration, the components of the dispenser (700) are provided only on the front portion (704) of the hand (102).

[00068] Figs. 8a and 8b illustrate top and bottom views of a dispenser (800) mounted on the hand (102) of the user, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00069] The dispenser (800) includes the frame member (106) as a bracelet member (806) configured to be mounted on the wrist portion (702) of the hand (102). The bracelet member (806) may be buckled onto the wrist portion (702). The bracelet member (806) may include the dispensing mechanism (112) mounted on the back portion (110) of the hand. Also, the receptacle (128) is mounted on the bracelet member (806) and positioned on the back portion (110). A duct (840), which is an embodiment of duct (140), is configured to traverse the web portion (114), similar to the third portion (124) of the frame member (106). As an example, the duct (840) traverses the web portion (114) between the middle and ring digits of the hand (102). The duct (840) thereafter is coupled to the nozzle member (120), to enable use of the dispenser (800).

[00070] In an embodiment, the frame member (106) may be a wrist band configured to be worn on the wrist portion (702). In this configuration, the dispensing mechanism (112) and/or the receptacle (128) may be integrated with the wrist band. The actuator (134) may be positioned proximal to the web portion (114) and the duct may extend from the dispensing mechanism (112) to the palm portion (118). Such a configuration facilitates effortless dispensing of the fluid onto the palm portion (118) with the same hand of the user.

[00071] Figs. 9a and 9b illustrate top and bottom views of a dispenser (900) mounted on the hand (102) of the user, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00072] The dispenser (900) includes the receptacle (128) mounted on the back portion (110) of the hand (102). The receptacle (128) may be mounted directly on the hand (102). The mounting means [not shown in Figures] may acts as the frame member (106) for supporting the receptacle (128) thereon. In an embodiment, the dispensing unit may be integrated with the receptacle (128) and may be positioned at any location on the receptacle (128) as per requirement. In this scenario, the length of the duct (140, 940, 840) may vary based on the location of the receptacle (128). Such a construction may enable faster dispensing of the fluid from the receptacle (128). Further, due to longer length of the tube, the chances of formation of air-bubbles therein are minimal, which facilitates constant flow of the fluid therefrom. In this configuration, the dispensing mechanism (112) may be integrated within the receptacle (128). Also, multiple ducts (940) extend from the receptacle (128) and traverse the web portions (114) of the hand (102). The ducts (940) thereafter are coupled to the nozzle member (120), to enable use of the dispenser (900). In this configuration, each duct (140) routes fluid from the receptacle (128) onto the palm portion (118) upon actuation of the nozzle member (120), which may be integrated with the actuator (134). [00073] Figs. 10a and 10b illustrate top and bottom views of a dispenser (1000) mounted on the hand (102) of the user, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00074] The dispenser (1000) includes the receptacle (128) mounted on the back portion (110) of the hand (102). The receptacle (128) may be mounted directly on the hand (102). The mounting means [not shown in Figures] acts as the frame member (106) for supporting the receptacle (128) thereon. In this configuration, the dispensing mechanism (112) may be integrated within the receptacle (128). Also, multiple ducts (1040) extend from the receptacle (128) and traverse the web portions (114) of the hand (102). Each duct (1040) is coupled to one or more nozzle members (1020), which may be configured to be a ring-like structure capable of being worn on the digits (126) of the user. As such, one or more nozzle members (1020) are configured in this embodiment of the dispenser (1000). Each nozzle member (1020) may be actuated via the digits (126) suitably. The nozzle member (1020) may be coupled to at least one actuator (134) for actuating the dispensing mechanism (112) and also includes a plurality of apertures (168) [not shown in Figs. 10a and 10b] for dispersing the fluid onto the palm portion (102). Operation of the nozzle member (1020) between the rest position (162) and the engaged position (164) via the digits (126) actuates the dispensing mechanism (112) to dispense fluid onto the palm portion (118).

[00075] Figs. 1 la and 1 lb illustrate top and bottom views of a dispenser (1100) mounted on the hand (102) of the user, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. In this configuration, the receptacle (128) is mounted on the back portion (110) and includes a dispensing mechanism (1112) coupled to the nozzle member (120). The dispensing mechanism (1112) may be a knuckle based pump mechanism, wherein the dispensing mechanism (1112) may be actuated by knuckles of the hand or by application of force thereon by forming a fist. Upon making a fist or exerting a force on the dispensing mechanism (1112), the fluid is dispensed therefrom onto the palm portion (118) via the nozzle member (120).

[00076] Figs. 12a and 12b illustrate top and bottom views of a dispenser (1200) mounted on the hand (102) of the user, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. In this configuration, the frame member (106) is configured to be a strap member (1206), which is mounted at an inclination or orientation on the back portion (110) of the hand (102). Alternatively, the strap member (1206) may be mounted horizontally or any other inclination as per feasibility and requirement. The receptacle (128) is mounted on the back portion (110). The dispensing mechanism (112) is configured within the strap member (1206) and is of a switch type mechanism, wherein the switch (1202) is located to be accessible by the digits (126) of the hand (102). The dispensing mechanism (112) is coupled to the nozzle member (120) via the duct (140). The dispensing mechanism (112) may be actuated by actuating the switch member (1202). Upon actuating the switch member (1202), the dispensing mechanism (112) is operated to dispense fluid from the receptacle (128) onto the palm portion (118) via the nozzle member (120).

[00077] Fig. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a wearable dispenser (1300) in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In this configuration, the frame member (106) is configured to be a sleeve member (1306). The sleeve member (1306) is a has a first end (1302) which may be positioned onto the palm portion (118) and a second end (1304) which may extend along an arm of the user, upon wearing. The first end (1302) and the second end (1304) are configured with openings (1308), so that the hand (102) passes through the sleeve member (1306). The dimensions of the openings (1308) may be configured based on the fit required for the user. As an example, the dimension of the opening at the first end (1302) may be smaller than the opening at the second end (1304).

[00078] Further, the dispensing mechanism (118) is positioned on the hand (102) to be operable via the digits (126) upon wearing the sleeve member (1306). The sleeve member (1306) provides required support to the components of the dispenser (1300). In an embodiment, the sleeve member (1306) supports the dispensing mechanism (112) and the receptacle (128) on a front surface (1310). The front surface (1310) may refer to the surface which rests on the front portion [as an e.g. front portion (704)] of the hand (102) of the user. Alternatively, the position or configuration of the components of the dispenser (1300) may be provided as per design feasibility and requirement. Further, the duct (140) may extend from the dispensing mechanism (112) to the palm portion (118), so that operation of the dispensing mechanism (112) via the digits (126) dispenses the fluid from the receptacle (128) to the palm portion (118). In an embodiment, the sleeve member (1306) may be made of a flexible fabric material or an elastic fabric material, which can fit onto the hand (102) and arm of the user. In another embodiment, the length of the sleeve member (1306) may be selected as per user’s feasibility and requirement.

ADVANTAGES

[00079] In an embodiment, the present disclosure provides a wearable dispenser that is capable of being worn on the glove or directly onto the user’s hand. Thus, enable the user to maintain personal hygiene or sanitize the hand on the go.

[00080] In an embodiment, the present disclose provides the wearable dispenser that is capable of dispensing the fluid onto the palm portion of the user’s hand, via actuation of the dispensing mechanism by the same hand. Such a construction mitigates the need for using another hand for operating the dispensing mechanism, as carried out in conventional wearable sanitizers. Thus, enabling personal hygiene and also avoiding inconvenience to the user.

[00081] In an embodiment, the present disclosure provides the wearable dispenser which prevents the user to reach out to external dispensers such as sanitizers that usually requires the user to contact multiple germ points, which may result in reducing the effectiveness of personal hygiene upon application onto the glove.

REFERENCE NUMERALS